As the preseason winds to a close, the Lakers and Mavs clash in one final tune-up ahead of their respective season-openers next week.
Luka Doncic seems likely to make his preseason debut for LA in its second-to-last preseason game. Doncic is beginning his second year -- and first full season -- with the Lakers following February's blockbuster trade with the Mavs.
There's a bit of added pressure on Doncic to carry the Lakers right away. LeBron James is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks because of a sciatica injury, giving Doncic the clear reins to the offense.
Doncic faced his former squad twice last season, winning both games. He dropped 45 points in an epic return to Dallas in April.
Doncic isn't the only name to follow in this contest. The Mavs are still building chemistry between Anthony Davis — the other centerpiece in the Doncic trade — and Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. This is the final preseason game for Dallas, as its opener looms next Wednesday.
Here's everything you need to know about watching the Lakers vs. Mavs preseason game, including broadcast information and start time.
Where to watch Lakers vs. Mavericks today: TV channel, live stream
The Lakers vs. Mavs preseason game will air nationally on ESPN.
Viewers can stream the game on Fubo, which offers a free trial, as well as with the brand new ESPN app.
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Lakers vs. Mavericks start time
- Date: Wednesday, Oct. 15
- Time: 10:30 p.m. ET
Tipoff of Lakers vs. Mavs is set for 10:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
The game will be played at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Lakers schedule 2025
The Lakers begin their regular-season slate on Tuesday, Oct. 21. Here's a look at the first five games on their schedule.
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct. 21 | vs Warriors | 10 p.m. | NBC, Peacock |
| Oct. 24 | vs Timberwolves | 10 p.m. | Prime Video |
| Oct. 26 | at Kings | 9 p.m. | — |
| Oct. 27 | vs Trail Blazers | 10:30 p.m. | — |
| Oct. 29 | at Timberwolves | 9:30 p.m. | ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo |
Mavericks schedule 2025
The Mavericks begin the 2025-26 season on Wednesday, Oct. 22. Here's look at their first five games.
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV/Live stream |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct. 22 | vs Spurs | 9:30 p.m. | ESPN, ESPN app, Fubo |
| Oct. 24 | vs Wizards | 8:30 p.m. | — |
| Oct. 26 | vs Raptors | 7:30 p.m. | — |
| Oct. 27 | vs Thunder | 8:30 p.m. | — |
| Oct. 29 | vs Pacers | 8:30 p.m. | — |