We’re not going to do a regular recap for a preseason game, but there are still some key observations worth discussing from Thursday’s contest between the Sacramento Kings and the Los Angeles Lakers.

De’Aaron Fox looked amazing

Guys. GUYS. De’Aaron Fox looked incredible. Sure the Lakers were playing without their best defensive point guard, but it’s not De’Aaron’s fault that Lonzo Ball is afraid of him. Fox finished with 18 points, five assists, and two steals in just 18 minutes of play. Even better, Fox went 4-for-6 from beyond the arc, including both spot ups and off-the-dribble threes. Fox looked fantastic, and we can only hope that it’s a sign of things to come this season.

Marvin Bagley III had himself a game

Bagley led the Kings in scoring and rebounds with 19 and 10, respectively. His weaknesses were still on display, but this game really highlighted his strengths as a player. If Bagley can be a productive scorer around the basket and gobble up rebounds, it’ll buy him a lot of patience from fans and blog boys as he works on improving his areas of opportunity.

Harry Giles is fun

Giles finished with 14 points, seven rebounds, three assists and a block. He was all over the place (in a good way) and I’m so excited for Harry’s season. Giles did end up fouling out, but the whistles were fast and furious throughout the game.

Justin Jackson’s ongoing disappearing act

Justin, don’t read this.
Justin Jackson isn’t very good. After two preseason games where he played significant minutes, he has yet to score a basket. Or a free throw. Zero points. In two games.

Buddy Hield was aggressive

Buddy went 5-11 overall from the field last night, but those 11 shots included 8 three point attempts of which Buddy made 4. Aggressive Buddy is good to see.

Other observations

Frank Mason had a nice game in Yogi Ferrell’s absence. Yogi’s arrival likely forces Frank to third in the rotation, but it’s still good to see him play well when the opportunity presents itself.

Wenyen Gabriel needs more minutes. It’s preseason, let’s get a good look at the Kings two-way contact player. He had 10 points, five rebounds and two steals in just 17 minutes of playing time.

Ben McLemore didn’t look bad. This is all I will say on the matter.

For those that couldn’t watch, the Kings have a lengthy highlight video where you can see all the best stuff from last night.