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Lakers fans will not see three notable players on the court Friday, when Los Angeles hosts the Denver Nuggets in its final preseason game. Collin Sexton, Adou Thiero and rookie guard Cameron Carr have been ruled out of the matchup, according to a report from Jovan Buha.
The game at Crypto.com Arena will serve as the Lakers’ final tune-up before the regular season begins. Los Angeles is scheduled to open its campaign against the Golden State Warriors after enjoying four full days away from game action.
Critical Lakers Injury Update Before the Nuggets Game
The Lakers have dealt with availability concerns throughout the preseason, preventing head coach JJ Redick from seeing his full group together for an extended stretch. Sexton has not appeared in any exhibition games, while Thiero missed Tuesday’s contest and Carr has been unavailable for the last two games.
- Collin Sexton: Out after missing the entire preseason to date.
- Adou Thiero: Unavailable after sitting out Tuesday’s game.
- Cameron Carr: Out after missing the Lakers’ previous two contests.
The absences are especially important because each player has a different role within the team’s plans. Sexton is expected to provide scoring, ballhandling and pace in the backcourt. Thiero is viewed as an energetic young forward who can contribute defensively, while Carr has already made a strong impression during preseason action.
Why Collin Sexton’s Absence Matters
Sexton’s expected contribution could be vital for a Lakers team that has struggled with turnovers during exhibition play. The veteran guard is capable of creating offense, attacking closeouts and giving teammates another option when defenses apply pressure.
Throughout his career, Sexton has averaged 18.3 points, 3.6 assists and 0.8 steals per game. He has also shot 47.2% from the field and 38.9% from three-point range while playing approximately 29 minutes per contest.
Those numbers highlight why Los Angeles signed him as a potential offensive spark. Sexton can relieve pressure from Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, both of whom are expected to handle major playmaking responsibilities. His ability to push the ball and break down defenders could also help the Lakers establish a faster offensive rhythm.
Without him available Friday, Los Angeles will have another opportunity to evaluate its current backcourt combinations. The coaching staff may use the game to test different lineups and determine which players can limit turnovers against a Denver defense that has challenged the Lakers in recent seasons.
Promising Young Lakers Players Also Sidelined
Thiero and Carr are two of the younger players generating interest around the roster. Thiero has shown flashes of athleticism on both ends of the court when healthy. His energy, defensive activity and ability to run the floor could make him a useful option during the regular season.
Carr created immediate excitement in the preseason opener, scoring 19 points on 7-of-13 shooting. The rookie guard’s performance offered a glimpse of his scoring ability and helped build expectations among Lakers supporters.
His absence Friday means the team will have to wait longer for another extended look at his development. The Lakers will also want to make sure both young players are fully prepared before asking them to take on larger responsibilities once the regular season begins.
What Friday’s Game Means for Los Angeles
Although preseason results do not count in the standings, the Nuggets matchup remains useful for roster evaluation. Los Angeles still has lineup decisions to make, and the coaching staff must assess defensive communication, rebounding and ball security before opening night.
The Lakers have not had their preferred roster available at any point during the exhibition schedule. That has limited chemistry-building opportunities, particularly around Doncic, Reaves and the team’s newer additions.
Friday’s game will therefore be less about the final score and more about preparation. The Lakers will look to finish preseason with sharper execution while managing player health ahead of the regular-season opener against Golden State.
For now, Sexton, Thiero and Carr will remain on the sidelines. Their status will be worth monitoring during the four-day break, particularly as Los Angeles prepares for a demanding opening stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Lakers players are out against the Nuggets?
Collin Sexton, Adou Thiero and Cameron Carr are expected to miss Friday’s preseason game against Denver.
Has Collin Sexton played during the preseason?
No. Sexton has not appeared in any of the Lakers’ preseason games so far.
Why is Sexton important to the Lakers?
Sexton can provide scoring, ballhandling, pace and playmaking while helping reduce pressure on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
How did Cameron Carr perform earlier in preseason?
Carr scored 19 points on 7-of-13 shooting in the Lakers’ preseason opener.
When do the Lakers begin the regular season?
Los Angeles will open its regular-season schedule against the Golden State Warriors after four full days off following the Nuggets game.
