Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers NBA Preseason: How to watch, TV channel, streaming, start time

Two teams with championship aspirations meet on Friday night to tip off the NBA Preseason.

The Los Angeles Lakers were, yet again, in the headlines all offseason, bringing on former NBA sharpshooter J.J. Redick as their new head coach before drafting Bronny James, LeBron's oldest son, in the second round of the NBA Draft.

The Timberwolves are coming off their best season in 20 years, reaching the Western Conference Finals by eliminating the defending champion Denver Nuggets. Anthony Edwards emerged as a superstar in his fourth NBA season and looks primed to take another leap in 2024/25.

But Minnesota enters the new season without one of their key pieces and franchise player for the last decade in Karl-Anthony Towns. Last Friday, Towns was dealt to the New York Knicks in exchange for Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, a move that shocked both fanbases given how successful both teams were last season.

Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers NBA Preseason start time, date and venue

Timberwolves vs. Lakers in the NBA Preseason will tip off at 10:30 PM ET / 9:30 PM CT / 7:30 PM PT on Friday, October 4 from Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, California.

How to watch Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Los Angeles Lakers NBA Preseason, TV channel and streaming

Timberwolves vs. Lakers in the NBA Preseason will be shown on NBA TV, which can be viewed through any streaming service that carries the network such as YouTube TV or fuboTV.

The game will be broadcast locally to Los Angeles on Spectrum Sportsnet. Streaming will also be available on NBA League Pass, which requires a paid subscription.

Is LeBron James playing vs. the Timberwolves?

It is unknown whether LeBron will feature in the Lakers' first preseason game. Head coach J.J. Redick said "he has discussed LeBron's ramp-up" with James' athletic trainer Mike Mancias, per ESPN, and will "share that plan when appropriate."

James is entering his 22nd NBA season. The 40-year-old played extended minutes in the Olympics this past summer, which would indicate the Lakers will likely limit his time on the court this preseason to ensure he is ready for the regular season, which begins on Tuesday, October 22.

Is Bronny James playing vs. the Timberwolves?

Bronny's status for Friday's preseason game is unknown, although it is expected that the rookie plays vs. Minnesota.

James Jr. is not guaranteed a spot on the Lakers opening day roster, which indicates he will get some run in the preseason.