Lakers Lose Preseason Game to Bucks without LeBron James and Austin Reaves

The Lakers were missing several starters in their preseason game against the Milwaukee Bucks, but LeBron James and Austin Reaves are expected to play in the final preseason game. The game against the Phoenix Suns will serve as a "test run" before the regular season opener.

The Los Angeles Lakers faced another preseason exhibition game against the Milwaukee Bucks without several key players, including LeBron James and Austin Reaves. This was part of their planned ramp-up for the regular season. However, they are expected to play in the final preseason game against the Phoenix Suns, which will serve as a "test run" before their regular-season opener against the Denver Nuggets on October 24.

Despite the absence of James and Reaves, Anthony Davis and D'Angelo Russell, two of the Lakers' known starters, played limited minutes in the first half. Taurean Prince, a candidate for the fifth starting spot, also started the game and scored eight points. Cam Reddish made his return to the court after missing three consecutive games due to ankle soreness and contributed 10 points and five rebounds.

Coach Darvin Ham praised Reddish's performance, highlighting his skills and competitiveness on both ends of the court. Max Christie also scored in double figures with 10 points and four rebounds.

Unfortunately, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Jalen Hood-Schifino were unable to play due to various injuries. Vanderbilt will be reevaluated on Friday and is expected to miss the game against the Suns. It remains uncertain if he will be available for the regular-season opener.

On the Bucks' side, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard made their preseason debuts. Antetokounmpo had an impressive performance with 16 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks in limited minutes. Lillard contributed 14 points, three assists, and three steals.

Coach Ham expressed admiration for the duo, recognizing the challenge they pose to opposing teams. He emphasized the difficulty of stopping their combination of skills and the Lakers' fortunate schedule of facing them only twice in the regular season.

With a three-day break before their final preseason game against the Suns, the Lakers will have the opportunity to solidify their rotation and gain clarity on their lineup for the start of the season. Coach Ham sees this game as a chance to assess their normal rotation and make improvements before the regular season begins.