Full Breakdown
Lakers Suffer Third Straight Loss to Kings Amid Shooting Struggles
1/14/2026, 12:25:23 PM
Game Overview: Lakers vs. Kings
On Monday night, the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Sacramento Kings, resulting in a 124-112 defeat that marked the Lakers' third consecutive loss and their seventh in the last eleven games. The game was characterized by the Lakers' historically poor performance in defending the three-point line, allowing the Kings to shoot 65.4% (17-for-26) from beyond the arc, the worst rate allowed in Lakers history for a game with at least 25 attempts. In contrast, the Lakers managed only 18% (6-for-33) from three-point range.
Key Performers and Game Dynamics
Malik Monk led the Kings with 26 points, including seven three-pointers, while DeMar DeRozan contributed 32 points. For the Lakers, Luka Doncic was the standout performer, scoring 42 points, while LeBron James added 22 points but struggled from three-point range, missing all five attempts. The Lakers initially took an 8-2 lead, but their shooting woes quickly became evident as they fell behind, unable to recover throughout the game.
Injuries Impacting Team Performance
The Lakers' struggles have been exacerbated by injuries to key players. Rui Hachimura, who has been sidelined due to a right calf issue, was available but did not play against the Kings, as head coach JJ Redick opted to save him for the following game against the Atlanta Hawks. Additionally, Austin Reaves has been out for two weeks with a left calf injury and is expected to miss at least two more weeks. James acknowledged the impact of these injuries, stating, "Obviously we're dealing with a lot of injuries right now."
Official Statements & Responses
After the game, Redick emphasized the team's ongoing shooting difficulties, noting, "We can’t make a shot... This has been the theme." He pointed out that despite having 50 potential assists, the Lakers converted only 21, highlighting their inefficiency. Redick also mentioned that the Kings' shooting performance was not surprising given the Lakers' defensive struggles this season.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed to the Lakers' inability to capitalize on open shots and their lack of effort as contributing factors to their recent losses. The team's poor shooting has become a recurring theme, raising concerns about their competitiveness moving forward. Redick faces the challenge of motivating the team amid these struggles, particularly with the upcoming game against the Hawks.
What's Next for the Lakers
The Lakers will host the Atlanta Hawks in their next game, where they hope to improve their shooting performance and regain momentum. The return of Hachimura is anticipated to bolster their three-point shooting capabilities, although Redick remains undecided on the starting lineup once the team is fully healthy. As the Lakers navigate this challenging period, they aim to weather the storm of injuries and regain their early-season form.
