Lakers To Close Out Las Vegas Summer League On Friday Vs. Nuggets

The Los Angeles Lakers' 2025 Summer League performance has been inconsistent, starting strong in the California Classic but struggling in Las Vegas with a 1-2 record.

Individual performances have varied: Bronny James, Cole Swider, and Darius Bazley have impressed. Swider leads the team in Vegas scoring (19.7 ppg) with exceptional 48.3% 3-point shooting, while James is averaging 13 points and 3.3 assists, showing significant improvement and comfort. Bazley has displayed strong activity and defense. Conversely, last year's first-round pick Dalton Knecht has struggled, shooting only 29% from the field in Vegas.

The Lakers have one regular Summer League game remaining against the Boston Celtics on Thursday. Additionally, since they cannot qualify for the playoffs, they will play a final game against the Denver Nuggets on Friday, July 18, as announced by the NBA. This matchup is noted as fitting due to the recent rivalry between the Lakers and Nuggets, and it completes a summer where the Lakers faced other rivals like the Celtics, Clippers, and Warriors.

Facing the Nuggets on the second night of a back-to-back, it is likely James, Knecht, and others may rest. This could provide extended minutes for other players, similar to how Quincy Olivari impressed the organization last year.

Bronny James' positive development and comfort level are highlighted, attributed to his experience and reps gained in the G League last season.