Walker Kessler, the Lakers’ new 7-footer, dropped a mind-blowing 26 points on 12-for-12 shooting in his debut against Golden State on October 21. That performance, second only to Wilt Chamberlain in Lakers history for most shots without a miss, helped Los Angeles roll to a 127-105 victory. That’s the kind of statement win that sets the tone, and it’s the perfect precursor to tonight’s NBA Cup group play opener between these Pacific Division rivals.
Lakers Are Rolling, And Vegas Knows It
Remember that first matchup a few weeks back? It was a blowout, 127-105 for the Lakers in Los Angeles. Luka Doncic absolutely carved up the Warriors with 28 points, eight boards, and seven assists, and he didn’t even play the fourth quarter! But the real shocker was Kessler’s 12-for-12 from the field, leading to 26 points and nine rebounds. That kind of efficiency from a big man, in his *debut*, is just unheard of. The Lakers are clearly feeling themselves, rolling into tonight’s NBA Cup group play opener as -3.5 favorites. Vegas has them taking nearly 70% of the tickets and a whopping 75% of the money. And that 234.5 Over total? It tells you everything you need to know about the pure offense we’re watching in the league now.
Golden State’s Challenge and the Rookie Sensation
It’s not the same old rivalry without LeBron James facing off against Stephen Curry. LeBron’s over in Philadelphia now, which definitely takes some of the “must-see TV” sparkle off this Pacific Division showdown in San Francisco. But hey, we still get to watch Steph, who led the Warriors with 23 points in that first game. The real storyline for Golden State fans, though, has to be rookie sensation Yaxel Lendeborg. The No. 11 overall pick out of national champion Michigan had a pretty quiet debut with 12 points and three boards. Can he step up and really make an impact in this NBA Cup opener? Because if the Warriors want to upset the Lakers and their red-hot new big man, they’re gonna need more than just Steph firing on all cylinders.
Tonight’s game is more than just another regular season matchup; it’s the start of NBA Cup group play. It’s the second game of an NBA on Prime Video doubleheader, tipping off at 10 PM ET. The Lakers are riding high after that dominant win and Kessler’s historic debut. Can Golden State find an answer, especially from young guys like Lendeborg, to kick off their NBA Cup run with an upset? Or will the Lakers prove their early season dominance is here to stay?
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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