The Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers game will be their final preseason matchup on October 17, 2025, at Crypto.com Arena. It is likely going to be a high-stakes tune-up that serves as a crucial measuring stick for both Pacific Division rivals before the 2025–26 NBA season tips off. With both teams seeking to close out preseason action on a strong note, all eyes are on how the Lakers’ new-look roster performs in front of their home crowd against a short-handed Kings squad.
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers: Odds and Betting Breakdown
The Lakers enter the contest as firm favorites, listed at -265 on the moneyline, while the Kings sit as +210 underdogs. The spread is set at Lakers -6.5, with an over/under total of 227 points. Oddsmakers clearly lean toward Los Angeles, factoring in the home-court advantage and Sacramento’s lineup concerns.
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers: Injury Report and Player Availability
Sacramento faces an uphill battle with three of its key contributors sidelined – Domantas Sabonis (hamstring strain), Malik Monk (illness), and Keegan Murray (rest). Sabonis’ absence especially hurts the Kings’ offensive flow, as he’s been averaging 14.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.0 assists this preseason on 48.6% shooting.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are expected to go full throttle. Head coach JJ Redick has indicated that this matchup will resemble a “regular-season simulation,” meaning stars Luka Dončić and LeBron James are likely to see extended minutes together. The duo has already demonstrated impressive chemistry, leading an offense that’s shown signs of top-tier potential. Dončić is pacing LA’s preseason scoring with 25 points per game, while Austin Reaves has emerged as a reliable third option, posting 22 PPG on 56.8% shooting.
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers: Team Form and Advanced Metrics
• Los Angeles Lakers: Despite a 1-3 preseason record, the Lakers have looked sharp offensively, averaging 112 points per game while playing at a pace of 100 possessions per 48 minutes. They’ve also excelled at the free-throw line, converting 81% of their attempts – a testament to the aggressive play of Dončić and Reaves. • Sacramento Kings: The Kings are still winless at 0-3, producing just 99.3 points per game on 41% shooting from the field. Their reliance on three-point shooting has been costly, connecting on only 33% from beyond the arc. Without Sabonis anchoring the paint, Sacramento’s offense has leaned heavily on perimeter looks, often leading to cold stretches and reduced efficiency.
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers: Expert Betting Preview
Given the current landscape, the Lakers appear poised for a comfortable victory. • Moneyline: Lakers (-265) – While not offering much value, this is the safest pick considering LA’s health and home advantage. • Spread: Lakers -6.5 – The Kings’ depleted rotation makes it likely that the Lakers will cover. • Over/Under: Under 227 – With Sacramento missing major scorers and struggling to maintain pace, a lower-scoring game feels probable.
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers: Best Prop Bets to Watch
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers (Image via USA Today Sports)
1. Luka Dončić Over 25.5 points – Expect Dončić to dominate the paint against a weakened Kings interior. 2. Austin Reaves Over 2.5 threes made – Reaves’ shooting consistency has been a bright spot, and LA’s offense thrives on his spacing. 3. LeBron James Over 6.5 assists – Under Redick’s system, LeBron’s drive-and-kick game could generate plenty of playmaking opportunities. 4. Deandre Ayton Over 9.5 rebounds – With Sacramento missing Sabonis, Ayton should control the glass with ease.
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers: Recent Trends and Historical Matchup
The Lakers have historically had the upper hand, winning four of their last six preseason meetings with the Kings. Sacramento’s average point differential this preseason sits at -13.7, compared to the Lakers’ -4.2. Los Angeles also benefits from a strong home-court edge and clear motivation to wrap up the preseason on a high note.
Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers: Final Prediction
With momentum, depth, and star power on their side, the Lakers are projected to secure a 118-106 victory. Expect Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves to lead the offensive charge, while LeBron James facilitates with his trademark playmaking. The Kings’ bench will have opportunities to prove themselves, but without their primary stars, keeping up with LA’s pace will be a tall order.This final Sacramento Kings vs Los Angeles Lakers preseason clash not only signals the readiness of the Lakers’ Luka-LeBron partnership but also sets the stage for what could be one of the NBA’s most intriguing duos entering the 2025-26 season. For bettors, taking the Lakers to cover the spread appears to be the most reliable wager, with the Under providing a steady value option for those favoring a more defensive matchup.
