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Lakers Put on Preseason Show in Shanghai

SHANGHAI — Fans in China wanted a show, and the Lakers obliged.

From LeBron James’ fancy finishes to Anthony Davis’ textbook footwork, the Lakers dazzled throughout the night, treating a packed Mercedes-Benz Arena to some fireworks despite ending in a 114-111 preseason loss to Brooklyn.

James and Davis were, predictably, at the forefront of the Lakers’ second preseason game. Both players saw 25 minutes of court time, with LeBron leading all players in scoring (20), while AD chipped in 16 points and five assists.

Since the start of training camp, coach Frank Vogel has been steadfast about keeping James and Davis in the same lineups, while trying different pieces around them. This night was no exception, as the superstar duo remained in the starting lineup, but everything else changed around them.

Rajon Rondo, Kentavoius Caldwell-Pope and Dwight Howard joined the starters, while Avery Bradley, Danny Green and JaVale McGee came off the bench.

Rondo stood out among those moved, finishing with an 18-point, six-assist, five-rebound line. He splashed a couple of triples, but did most of his work inside, including off a cut on a nice feed from Davis.

Meanwhile, McGee was ultra productive in only 19 minutes off the pine. He never lacked for energy, packing six points, 10 rebounds, five blocks and three steals into his shifts.

With Davis, McGee and Alex Caruso (11 points, eight assists, three steals) leading the way, L.A.’s defense reached impressive heights. However, Brooklyn got hot beyond the arc, draining 20 triples on only 41 attempts.

Spencer Dinwiddie — in relief of Kyrie Irving, who suffered an opening-minute facial injury — led the Nets with 20 points and seven assists.