In the first matchup of the NBA preseason, the Brooklyn Nets cruised to a 123-97 victory against Los Angeles. The game lacked the usual star power, as the Lakers kept LeBron James and Russell Westbrook out of the action. Similarly, the Nets' 'Big Three'—Durant, Harden, and Irving—remained on the bench. With so many superstars resting, it was perhaps the most star-studded collection of non-playing athletes seen in a single game this season.
Brooklyn Nets came out victorious by defeating Los Angeles 123-97 in the opening game of the NBA preseason. Star players of the Lakers, Lebron James, and Russell Westbrook did not play and sat on the bench. On the other side, Brooklyn Net’s big three Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Kyrie Irving rested on the bench. The crowd would not see a better collection of benchwarmers in an NBA game this season. The preseason opener kicked off without any big names on the playing list.
Since the heavy hitters were resting at the Staples Center Arena, the preseason opener became a perfect stage for the younger generation to showcase their skills. The Nets utilized a lineup that included the likes of Joe Harris and Blake Griffin, as well as new additions James Johnson and Patty Mills.
Cam Thomas stole the spotlight for Brooklyn, leading the team with a game-high 21 points. Other key contributors included Bruce Brown with 12 points and the experienced Paul Millsap, who tallied 10 points and 10 rebounds. LaMarcus Aldridge also started for the Nets, scoring six points in a short 15-minute stint, marking a significant return after he had retired last season following a heart irregularity.
The Lakers' scoring opened with a basket from Anthony Davis, who managed six points during his first-quarter appearance. Malik Monk also made his debut for Los Angeles, contributing 15 points. Despite these efforts, the Nets completely took over in the final period, outscoring the Lakers 39-16 to seal the game.
Cam Thomas translated his Summer League success into a brilliant preseason performance against Los Angeles. Dominating the court, Thomas led Brooklyn's offense with 21 points, converting 7 of his 14 field goal attempts and hitting one three-pointer in 22 minutes of action. Having been a top scorer in the NCAA and a standout in the Summer League, Thomas demonstrated that he possesses a versatile and dangerous scoring arsenal.