Get ready for an intense NBA showdown as the Los Angeles Lakers face off against the Sacramento Kings on January 12, 2026! Despite their poor record, the Kings are proving they haven't given up the fight. This Monday night rematch in Sacramento is sure to be a fiery one, especially with veteran guard Dennis Schroder out due to a suspension.
Schroder, a key player for the Kings, will be serving the second game of his three-game suspension without pay. The NBA's decision stems from an incident where Schroder allegedly attempted to strike an opponent after a game, with reports suggesting the player involved was none other than the Lakers' star guard, Luka Doncic.
The confrontation occurred approximately 40 minutes after the Kings' 125-101 loss to the Lakers on December 28th. Schroder and Doncic exchanged words during the game, with Doncic putting up an impressive 34 points and seven assists.
Lakers coach JJ Redick remained tight-lipped about the incident, stating it's a league matter and he has no comment. On the other hand, Sacramento coach Doug Christie acknowledged the situation, saying it's unfortunate but respecting the league's ruling. Christie praised Schroder's intensity and fighting spirit, emphasizing that it's about self-defense and loyalty to the team.
In the December 28th game, Schroder contributed 11 points and seven assists in 19 minutes off the bench. This marked the Lakers' second consecutive win over the Kings this season and their sixth win in a row overall.
Sacramento forward Precious Achiuwa expressed gratitude towards the Lakers, acknowledging their debt to the team. Without Schroder, the Kings ended a seven-game losing streak with a stellar victory over the Houston Rockets on Sunday. DeMar DeRozan scored 22 points for Sacramento, becoming the 23rd player in NBA history to surpass 26,000 career points.
Malik Monk, who saw his playing time slashed in mid-December, stepped up with Schroder out. He received 26 minutes of action (his most since December 14th) and delivered a spark with 15 points. Coach Christie praised Monk's performance, commending him for playing to the standard.
The Lakers, however, are coming off back-to-back losses and have lost six of their last ten games. Their latest setback was a 105-101 home loss against the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. Doncic, who had scored 30 or more points in six straight games prior, managed only 24 points against the Bucks, shooting 8-of-25. He's still averaging a league-leading 33.3 points per game.
LeBron James put up an impressive all-around performance with 26 points, 10 assists, nine rebounds, and three steals. He's averaging 28.3 points, 8.5 assists, and 8.3 rebounds in four appearances this month.
The Lakers will have forward Rui Hachimura back in action. He missed the past six games due to a right calf strain. Hachimura, a free agent, is eager to contribute and help the team win.
"At the end of the day, I'm here to help this team succeed," Hachimura said. "I've been with the Lakers for four seasons now, and I'm proud to be one of the longest-tenured players here."
This highly anticipated game promises to be a thrilling battle between two determined teams. Will the Kings continue their winning streak without Schroder, or will the Lakers bounce back and secure another victory? Tune in to find out!
