Warriors Dominate Preseason Matchup
The Golden State Warriors secured a convincing 124-98 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in Tuesday’s preseason contest at Chase Center. While the Lakers were playing on the second night of a back-to-back and missing key starters including Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, the Warriors utilized the opportunity to refine their new lineup. The victory was defined by a collective effort, with the starters building a massive 28-point lead by halftime, according to NBC Sports Bay Area.
Steph Curry finished with 16 points in 14 minutes, while Draymond Green contributed eight assists. However, the most significant narrative of the night was the performance of rookie Yaxel Lendeborg. After a quiet debut in Hawaii, Lendeborg answered the coaching staff’s call to play with increased aggression, finishing the game with 17 points and eight rebounds.
Lendeborg’s Offensive Evolution
Head coach Steve Kerr and veteran teammates have been vocal about the need for Lendeborg to embrace an offensive role, specifically when Curry is off the floor. Following a pass-heavy approach in his first preseason appearance, Lendeborg showed a marked shift in mindset against the Lakers. By the end of the first quarter, he had already recorded seven points, four rebounds, and a block, demonstrating an ability to attack the rim and exploit defensive mismatches.
“We don’t want anything passive,” Curry noted regarding the team’s expectations for the rookie. Lendeborg’s ability to drive to the basket and his success from behind the arc—where he connected on both of his 3-point attempts in the second quarter—provided the Warriors with the offensive versatility they have been searching for to support their veteran core.
Lineup Adjustments and Future Outlook
Steve Kerr utilized a new starting five against the Lakers, inserting Gui Santos alongside Curry, Podziemski, Lendeborg, and Green, while moving Al Horford to a reserve role. This configuration proved highly effective, as the unit dominated the first half. The synergy between Lendeborg and Brandin Podziemski, who combined for 33 points, suggests that the team’s long-term success may depend on the consistency of its younger players.
As the preseason continues, the Warriors face the challenge of managing a roster that is currently navigating injuries, including the absences of Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody. The team’s ability to rely on Lendeborg as a secondary playmaker will be critical as they prepare for the regular season opener against the Lakers in Los Angeles.