Yaxel Lendeborg, the Warriors’ 11th overall pick, is already turning heads, securing a spot in the starting lineup for their 2026 preseason opener against the Los Angeles Clippers this Sunday. It looks like the immediate impact everyone hoped for is here.
The Rookie Who’s Ready For Prime Time
Seriously, this kid is for real. Lendeborg had an absolutely dominant summer, snagging Summer League MVP honors with averages of 14.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. And now? He is jumping straight into the starting five alongside vets like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, and Al Horford. Head Coach Steve Kerr did not mince words about it either, telling ESPN that Lendeborg “deserves it. Summer league or pickup games or now, he’s one of our best players already.” That is some serious praise for a rookie, and it tells you everything you need to know about the team’s belief in him. Golden State’s looking to see how quickly he can translate that success when the lights are on, and it sure sounds like Kerr thinks he will.
A Fresh Start After A Rough Ride
This season opener is a huge moment, especially after how the 2025-26 season ended. Injuries absolutely crushed the Warriors last year. Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody both went down with significant knee injuries that ended their seasons early. Even Steph Curry battled a lingering runner’s knee issue, missing a big chunk of the year. And let’s not forget Kristaps Porzingis, who missed multiple games due to illness after being acquired midseason. Despite all that, the team managed to claw their way to a 37-45 record, finishing as the 10th seed in the Western Conference. Their run ended in the Play-In Tournament, falling to the Phoenix Suns in their second game. So, seeing this year’s group, especially with Lendeborg’s immediate impact, is a breath of fresh air.
Catch The Action From Honolulu
The Golden State Warriors tip off against the Los Angeles Clippers at 4:00 p.m. PT from Honolulu, Hawaii, in the Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center. If you want to catch all the action and see Lendeborg’s debut for yourself, you can watch it live on NBA League Pass. The Clippers will roll out a starting lineup featuring Darius Garland, Keaton Wagler, Max Strus, Derrick Jones Jr., and Brook Lopez, so it will be a good test for the new-look Warriors. Sunday’s game is our first real glimpse at what this Warriors squad can do. Can Lendeborg keep up the hype? We are about to find out.
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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