The Suns kicked off the 2025-26 season with a decisive 103-81 win over the Lakers in Palm Desert, signaling a pivotal rebuild under new coach and philosophy. Devin Booker anchored the night with 24 points in 25 minutes as Dillon Brooks unleashed his defensive ferocity and relentless effort, helping Phoenix establish an early identity built on hustle, turnovers, and extra possessions. A mix of veterans and 14 new players began to show chemistry, with Grayson Allen spacing the floor and Booker orchestrating the offense in a rock-solid first impression.

From the outset, Phoenix pushed tempo, grabbed offensive boards, and forced six Lakers turnovers, laying the groundwork for a 31-16 first quarter. The Lakers answered in the second, aided by a flurry of free throws, but the Suns still carried a 57-44 lead into the break. The third quarter highlighted Nick Richards, Khaman Maluach, and Fleming on the defensive end as Phoenix extended the advantage to 27, while Booker and Brooks kept the offense humming. In the final stretch, rookies and depth players flexed, with Maluach drawing attention for his size and energy. The Suns head to China next week to face Brooklyn, leaving optimism that the blueprint has real substance for the season ahead.

The Los Angeles Lakers have made strategic moves post-2025 NBA Draft, signing RJ Davis, a talented guard from North Carolina, on an Exhibit 10 contract. Davis, who spent five productive years with the Tar Heels, was named the ACC Player of the Year in 2024, showcasing his scoring ability with an average of 17.2 points and 3.6 assists in his final season. Known for his speed and strong finishing skills, Davis is a proficient outside shooter, hitting 36.7% from three during his collegiate career.

Additionally, the Lakers secured Eric Dixon, a prolific scorer from Villanova, on a two-way contract, further bolstering their roster depth. Another notable addition is Augustas Marčiulionis from Saint Mary's, who joins the Lakers under similar terms. These signings demonstrate Los Angeles' commitment to enhancing their backcourt for the upcoming season.

The Los Angeles Lakers made an impactful splash during the 2025 NBA Draft, making strategic moves to acquire the No. 36 pick, where they selected Adou Thiero, a promising two-way wing from Arkansas. Beyond the draft, the Lakers were active in signing undrafted free agents, notably North Carolina standout RJ Davis on an Exhibit-10 deal, and Villanova’s Eric Dixon, the previous season’s leading scorer.

Dixon, who averaged 23.3 points and shot over 40% from three, joins a Lakers team known for nurturing undrafted talent, looking to showcase his skills in the upcoming Summer League. The Lakers have a strong history of turning undrafted players into key contributors, with Austin Reaves and Alex Caruso as prime examples. This trend continues as they aim to capitalize on post-draft opportunities to build a deeper and more competitive roster.