The Kings Own the Lakers at Home and Spoil Lebron’s Milestone Night
The Sacramento Kings defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 124–112 on Monday at the Golden One Center. Even with Luka Dončić scoring an impressive 42 points, the Lakers suffered their third consecutive loss, largely due to the Kings’ outstanding perimeter shooting. The game featured a jersey patch honoring LeBron James' 23rd NBA season in the city where he began his career. The patch depicts a silhouette of his pregame chalk toss along with three colorful stripes symbolizing the Lakers, Cavaliers, and Heat, the teams he has played for. While the tribute added a nostalgic backdrop, it was Sacramento’s depth and execution that ultimately defined the night.
Luka Magic Had No Effect Against the Kings
Dončić was the clear standout on the court, finishing with 42 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists. Beyond LeBron James, who scored 22 points, the Lakers’ supporting cast offered little resistance. Marcus Smart failed to score from the field, and the bench was unable to match Sacramento’s depth. Deandre Ayton grabbed 13 rebounds but struggled defensively, often executing one assignment correctly before missing another. Trade rumors involving Ayton and Sacramento circulated this week. If the Lakers hope to improve their roster, adjustments will need to come quickly. Former Russell Westbrook provided a spark off the bench, scoring 22 points primarily in the paint against Ayton and adding seven assists. The Lakers now face a quick turnaround as they prepare to host the Atlanta Hawks.
Where the Kings Took Over
Sacramento seized control with a 19–6 run to open the third quarter, stretching the lead to as many as 20 points. Although the Lakers trimmed the deficit to seven in the fourth quarter, timely shots from DeMar DeRozan, who scored 32 points, and Zach LaVine, who added 19, ensured the Kings stayed in command. The Lakers could not counter Sacramento’s three-point efficiency, as the Kings shot a season-high 65.4% from beyond the arc while Los Angeles managed just 22.2%. Malik Monk was instrumental for the Kings, scoring 26 points, dishing out eight assists, and making all but two three-pointers. His energy in the second quarter was crucial in overturning an early Lakers lead and establishing a lead Sacramento maintained for the rest of the game.
