The Los Angeles Lakers secured their first win of the 2025-26 season Friday night at Crypto.com arena, defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves 128-110. After opening the campaign with a narrow loss to the Golden State Warriors, the Lakers bounced back with a more complete performance.

The Lakers (1-1) have problems of their own. LeBron James is out with sciatica. Luka Doncic (left finger sprain) and Jaxson Hayes (left knee soreness) are questionable. Here are three things to watch in Sunday’s game.

After Luka Doncic posted photos on Instagram from Friday’s game with the caption “First 1,” Austin Reaves commented, “make a free throw.”

Luka Doncic scored 49 points and became the fourth player in NBA history to begin a season with back-to-back 40-point performances, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 128-110 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Luka Dončić had a chance to reach 50 points before he was removed during Friday's 128-110 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, as head coach JJ Redick left him in the game late in the fourth quarter on 48 points.

Lakers coach JJ Redick allowed Luka Doncic to stay in Friday's game a little longer to give the superstar a shot at reaching 50 points.

How various NBA analyst and fans a like trashed the Mavericks for their loss on the same night Luka Doncic dropped 49 points for the Lakers.

There's no indication that Nico Harrison's status as Dallas Mavericks general manager is in jeopardy right now, but team doesn't appear to be in a rush to extend his deal in the aftermath of the Luka Dončić trade.