Lakers Season Opener Review: Doncic's 43+12+9 Without Support, Ayton's Slow Start Raises Doubts

On October 22nd Beijing time, the Lakers were defeated 109-119 at home by the Warriors, failing to secure a season-opening victory. Their poor performances in the first and third quarters contributed significantly to the loss, with a total deficit of 16 points in those quarters.

Their defense broke down for much of the second half, and the Warriors seized the opportunity to strike hard. After a 1-5 preseason record, the Lakers also dropped their regular season opener, failing to start the new season strongly. Clearly, the Lakers have a long way to go if they want to advance deeper into the playoffs. After the game, the American media outlet Sports Illustrated provided an analysis of the Lakers’ season opener —

Doncic Shines but Lacks Support

26-year-old Doncic was the standout player for the Lakers in the opener. He was undoubtedly the brightest presence on the court. Doncic started the game on fire, shooting 17 of 27 and scoring 43 points, along with 12 rebounds, 9 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block, playing 41 minutes in total.

This Slovenian superstar gave his all for the Lakers, accounting for 39% of the team’s points. However, Doncic received almost no support during the game; besides him, only Reeves and Ayton scored in double digits for the team.

Lakers’ Perimeter Defense Struggles

Before the season started, the Lakers’ biggest concern was their perimeter defense, and after the season opener loss, that worry remains unrelieved.

The Lakers failed to trouble players like Curry, Butler, Hield, and Kuminga, who combined for 88 points. The Warriors played as a highly efficient team, shooting 48.7% from the field and 42.5% from beyond the arc.

Smart was supposed to be the solution to this problem; however, he quickly got into foul trouble and struggled to find his defensive rhythm.

Time will tell how the Lakers’ defense evolves, but judging from this one game, the outlook is not promising.

Ayton’s Sluggish Start Sparks Doubts

The Lakers needed to address the center position during the offseason because this weakness was exposed by the Timberwolves in last season’s playoffs. After just one game in the 2025-26 season, this concern remains very evident.

Every time Ayton had the ball, it seemed difficult for him; the game looked much tougher for him than it should have been. The stats reflect this, as does the visual impression. Ayton scored 10 points with 6 rebounds but committed 4 turnovers.

It’s not yet time to panic, but his performance hasn’t inspired much confidence among Lakers fans, leaving doubts about whether he is the solution at the center position.

The Lakers will host the Timberwolves in their next game, aiming for their first win of the season.