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The Los Angeles Lakers will be playing two of their preseason games next year overseas, according to reporter Ryan Ward.
#Lakers confirm they’ll be playing two preseason games in China vs. #Nets. These games will be played on Oct. 10 in Shanghai, followed by a rematch in Shenzhen on Oct. 12.
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) January 8, 2019
The Lakers will likely be led by superstar LeBron James, third year forward Brandon Ingram, and 2017 first round picks Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, and Josh Hart. The Nets will almost certainly still feature young and upcoming players D'Angelo Russell, Caris LeVert, Jarrett Allen, and Spencer Dinwiddle. However, it is highly likely that both teams' rosters will be the same, as both of them are expected to be major players in the 2019 free agency.
NBA China CEO Derek Chang released a statement thanking the Lakers and Nets in advance for their participation in the China Games.
“We would like to extend our warmest welcome to the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets as we celebrate the 27th and 28th NBA games in China. These games are the pillars of our efforts to bring authentic NBA action to our Chinese fans. I want to thank the cities of Shanghai and Shenzhen for their support and commitment to help us grow the game and promote an active and healthy lifestyle in China.”
Meanwhile, Kuzma is already looking forward to the event.
Article Continues Below“The entire Los Angeles Lakers organization is excited to return to China to play in front of the passionate Chinese fans. During my visit to China, I was absolutely amazed by the fans’ love and excitement for the game of basketball. We would like to thank you in advance for coming out to support us in Shanghai and Shenzhen and I know the atmosphere at the games will be great.”
LeVert stated that he's thankful for the opportunity to showcase his talents in China.
“It’s an honor to help celebrate basketball’s growth abroad, and represent Brooklyn and the League on an international stage. The Nets have a connection to fans all over the world, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to visit China and play for our passionate Chinese fans for the very first time.”
Both teams have participated in NBA China Games before. The Lakers will be partaking in the said event for the second time, having first played preseason games there in 2013. The Nets have previously played there in 2010 and 2014.
The Lakers are expected to go after upcoming free agents Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard, or explore a trade for New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis. Meanwhile, the Nets are closely monitoring Kristaps Porzingis' situation with the New York Knicks. Brooklyn is reportedly willing to offer him a super-max contract if New York is unwilling to take the risk.
The NBA has also announced that fans will have the opportunity to team up with players from both teams during shooting drills. The NBA China Games will also feature a series of community outreach programs in Shanghai and Shenzhen. China is a country heavily populated by die-hard basketball and NBA fans, so the league conducting preseason games there will surely be a treat for aficionados.
