The Golden State Warriors just snagged a 101-89 win against the Los Angeles Lakers in Las Vegas, but seriously, can we talk about rookie Yaxel Lendeborg? Dude came out swinging, dropping 17 points in under 24 minutes. If you weren’t watching, you missed a performance that really highlighted what this team can do, even when they’re not at full strength.
Warriors Made It Happen Despite Key Absences
Look, the Warriors went into this game without a couple of their big names. Kristaps Porzingis, that 7-foot-3 Latvian big man, wasn’t available. Neither was Al Horford. And you could feel it sometimes, right? Coach Steve Kerr’s whole “5-out” alignment thrives on floor spacing, especially from the center spot. Porzingis is exactly that guy. So, without him and Horford, the Warriors were definitely smaller, and they were missing some serious shooting and spacing. That’s a tough hand to play, even in an early season matchup. The Lakers also had Luka Doncic not even suit up, which definitely played a part. But despite all that, the Warriors still rallied back from a significant deficit to secure the win. That’s grit, plain and simple.
Yaxel Lendeborg Is NOT a Role Player. He’s a Problem.
Okay, back to Lendeborg. 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in less than 24 minutes? That’s just wild for a rookie. He didn’t just put up numbers, though; he looked completely at home in Steve Kerr’s intricate offense. We’re talking about a guy who flashed real comfort and familiarity with the system, plus that motor and hustle that got the Warriors a couple of crucial second-chance points. His offensive versatility is no joke. He’s been promising as an off-ball spacer, especially when Steph Curry is doing his thing in the pick-and-roll. We saw him chilling in the corner, taking advantage of ‘tag’ situations, and drilling a three. But here’s the kicker: Lendeborg can also be the main guy in a spread pick-and-roll, with Curry just chilling as a standstill spacer. He’s got “on-ball juice” and the handle to keep possessions solid, even using some “change-of-pace craft” to create scoring chances up close. You know Kerr trusts him when you hear calls like “Thumb up Charles” for a spread angle PnR with Bassey screening for Yaxel. The trust in Lendeborg for pick-and-roll reps, with Steph as a standstill spacer, is definitely intriguing.
So, what’s next? This early season win, especially with a rookie like Lendeborg stepping up huge, tells us a lot about the Warriors’ depth and resilience. Keep an eye on this kid, because if he keeps playing like this, he’s going to be a key piece as the season gets rolling.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Golden State of Mind.
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