Lakers' "Big 3" Debut Shows "Growing Pains" in Preseason Finale

The Los Angeles Lakers finally had an opportunity to see their "Big 3"—Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler—on the court together during Friday night's preseason finale loss to the Denver Nuggets. While the combination showed flashes of potential, the game also highlighted significant "growing pains" and areas needing development.

The highly anticipated pairing of Doncic and Kessler in pick-and-roll situations was on display, moving beyond practice drills to face an opposing team. Kessler, making his second appearance after an extended absence, aimed to build on his previous outing and complement the team's star guards. The inclusion of Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams in the starting lineup, potentially a preview for the regular season opener, provided a look at the team's perimeter defense with Kessler anchoring it.

Despite the anticipation, the Lakers struggled with turnovers early in the game, committing six in the first quarter and ten by halftime. This inefficiency underscored the team's need for more reps together to develop chemistry and rhythm.

Kessler appeared to be adjusting to the defensive attention directed at Doncic and Reaves, and the playmaking responsibilities that arise in such situations. "There's going to be some growing pains, just lack of reps together so far," Reaves said. "More than likely going to pick up on it sooner than later. So we'll continue to grow that over the next couple days and be ready for Opening Night."

Amidst the struggles, positive aspects emerged. Sandro Mamukelashvili and Williams demonstrated immediate connections with Doncic. Kessler also began to grasp his role in short-roll situations when Doncic and Reaves are pressured in the pick-and-roll, a strategy the Nuggets employed frequently.

"Obviously there’s a transitional period playing with both Luka and AR on the floor together," Kessler stated. "Kind of what I was saying before, about the blitz and ball screens and playing out of that pocket. I started to get it a little bit. Obviously Luka and AR are pretty used to that."

The team's performance in the preseason finale emphasized the importance of on-court time to establish necessary rhythms and understandings between players. Coach JJ Redick expressed confidence that the team will be prepared for the start of the regular season, which begins Wednesday against the Warriors. Friday's game served as a crucial step in that preparation.