Lakers vs. Jazz Final Score: Hot second unit not enough to lift Lakers in 105-99 loss to Jazz

Following a strong showing in Sin City on Sunday, the Los Angeles Lakers dropped their third game of the preseason, losing to the visiting Utah Jazz 105-99 behind Rudy Gobert’s 29 points, 13 rebounds and two blocks.

With his unique combination of size and athleticism, Gobert caused a ton of problems for the Lakers, namely Brook Lopez, who failed to capitalize on his impressive debut for the purple and gold. Lopez finished the night with just seven points and struggled mightily from the field, shooting a lowly 27.3 percent on 11 shot attempts.

However, Lopez wasn’t alone in his struggles. The starters struggled to make an impact offensively, only putting up a combined 38 points, with Ingram leading the way with a preseason-high 13 points on 5-for-12 shooting from the field. Ingram also ended the night with 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals. It was easily the most comfortable Ingram has looked since the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves in their preseason opener.

Despite the loss, there were a few bright spots, including the second unit, who kept the Lakers in the game all night.

Kuzma continues to be the storyline of the preseason, scoring a league-high 78 total points through his first four preseason games. Kuzma had a little help from his supporting cast tonight however, namely Jordan Clarkson, who looked the sharpest he has looked in several games.

Julius Randle, who came off the bench for the second straight game, wasn’t too far behind with 13 points. Combined, Randle, Kuzma and Clarkson added 49 points, 11 rebounds and 2 assists for the Lakers off the bench. The rest of the second unit contributed 15 points.

The Lakers fell to 1-3 with the loss to Utah and will close their preseason against their inner-city rivals, the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday before tipping off regular season play against the Clippers on Oct. 19.