- Oct 16, 2026
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The Lakers concluded their preseason schedule with a 121-106 defeat to the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena on Friday, but head coach JJ Redick remained noncommittal about Quentin Grimes' regular-season role despite strong exhibition play.
Redick's final starting lineup featured Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams and Walker Kessler. Grimes, who had started the first four preseason contests, came off the bench and scored 11 points in the second half. Across five exhibition games, Grimes averaged 12.3 points, 2.5 assists and 24.3 minutes while shooting 53.3 percent from the field and 41.2 percent from three-point range.
Redick said he is "still open to both" starting Grimes or using him as a reserve. Grimes has started 146 of 318 career games through five NBA seasons. Redick noted that Grimes is going to start a lot of games, calling that the reality of the situation.
Doncic finished with 15 points before sitting the second half. Reaves led the starters with 19 points, followed by Williams with 14. Collin Sexton missed the entire preseason with a lower right leg injury but has increased his practice activity. Adou Thiero (maintenance) and Cameron Carr (contusion) also sat out. The Lakers open the regular season Wednesday against the Golden State Warriors.
Written by the SportsMafia Wire desk in our own words from the original reporting (AI-assisted, checked against the source).