LAS VEGAS — The Lakers’ opening Summer League matchup in Las Vegas was as electric as advertised on Thursday against No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks. Despite falling short in the final seconds, the game delivered everything the Summer League brings: a packed crowd, high-profile rookies and flashes of future potential in the association.
Bronny James and Flagg going head-to-head in the post was a standout sequence. James held his ground, poking the ball free before a bailout loose-ball foul interrupted the battle. A moment that truly shows James’ defensive range against a bigger opponent.
Now the focus shifts to Game 2, where the Lakers will take on the New Orleans Pelicans (on Saturday) at 5:30 p.m. PT.
In Thursday’s 87–85 loss to Dallas, Cole Swider once again proved why he’s been one of the Lakers’ most consistent scorers this summer. He led the team with 22 points on six-of-nine from three, marking the third time in four games he’s led L.A. in scoring.
Dalton Knecht chipped in 15 points and looked more comfortable creating shots, both in the paint and from the perimeter. He went 3-for-7 from beyond the arc and continues to settle into his offensive rhythm.
Bronny finished with 8 points and had a chance to win it in the final moments but missed a contested jumper just before the buzzer. The moment offered valuable experience as he continues developing in hopes of earning a rotation role in year two.
Five-year pro Darius Bazley got the starting nod at center for the Lakers over veteran Christian Koloko, who was added to the Summer League roster just before Game 1. He posted 8 points and 10 rebounds, but his defensive versatility stood out most, holding his own in the paint and on pick-and-roll switches against smaller guards, especially on the perimeter.
Bazley is 25 years old and his ability to guard multiple positions in today’s fast-paced league could help him earn a roster spot.
As the Lakers prepare for their second game in Vegas, attention will turn to closing out late-game situations and improving offensive execution. The Pelicans bring a young, athletic squad led by No. 8 overall pick Jeremiah Fears out of Oklahoma.
New Orleans dropped its Summer League opener to the Magic but had all five starters finish in double figures. Their leading scorer was three-year pro Lester Quinones, who tallied 20 points off the bench.
Lakers vs. Pelicans: Vegas Summer League Game 2
📅 Date: Saturday, July 12
⏰ Tip-off: 5:30 p.m. PT
📍 Location: Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas
📻 Radio: ESPN LA 710 and the Lakers Radio Network
Projected Starters (Game 1 Lineups)
Pelicans Starting Five (Projected):
The Lakers will return to action Monday night for Game 3 against the Clippers at 7:30 p.m. PT as the Las Vegas Summer League continues.