D’Angelo Russell leads Lakers to exhibition win over Kings

The Lakers’ evaluation did not cease despite playing an exhibition game with a shorthanded team. In fact, according to Lakers coach Darvin Ham, there were valuable lessons to be learned from the players who took the court that night against the Sacramento Kings. The absence of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Jarred Vanderbilt, Austin Reaves, and Cam Reddish meant that the other players had the opportunity to cultivate positive habits.

“We will continue to focus on our mentality and our mission, which is to compete, defend, and share. The consistent approach should be building winning habits, regardless of who is playing,” said Ham.

The starting lineup featuring D’Angelo Russell, Gabe Vincent, Rui Hachimura, Taurean Prince, and Jaxson Hayes exemplified this plan.

Read more: Lakers coach Darvin Ham wants Anthony Davis to take more three-pointers

Russell and Vincent set the right tone, particularly in the Lakers’ 109-101 victory over the Kings. Russell continued his impressive performance in the exhibition season, tallying 21 points on efficient shooting, including two three-pointers, and contributing eight assists in just 21 minutes. Vincent also had a solid outing, recording 15 points and three assists.

Prince displayed his defensive prowess while scoring 13 points and grabbing seven rebounds. Hachimura added 13 points and six rebounds to the team’s effort.

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This story was originally published in the Los Angeles Times.