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What we learned from the Lakers' preseason games and training camp

The Los Angeles Lakers kicked off their preseason campaign with a mix of standout performances and lingering positional uncertainty heading into their regular-season opener against the Golden State Warriors. Ziaire Williams, now a full-time Laker after his trade from Brooklyn, has quickly made a strong impression in limited preseason action, shooting 5-for-5 from three-point range in two starts and averaging 13.5 points while stepping up defensively.

Coach J.J. Redick, who has praised Williams’ defensive intensity and leadership since taking over the team, called him a “special human being” and expressed confidence in his ability to grow further.

While Williams appears poised to earn a starting role at power forward, the Lakers have also shown promise from other contenders at the position, including Jake LaRavia, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and Adou Thiero, each of whom brought energy and skill in the preseason. Despite the team’s 1-4 preseason record, Redick emphasized a commitment to continuous improvement, noting that adjustments to offense, defense, and schemes will evolve throughout the season rather than being finalized early.

The Warriors matchup on Wednesday will serve as the first true test of the Lakers’ new-look roster and Redick’s system, with the team aiming to build on preseason progress as they push toward another championship run.

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