The Golden State Warriors finally got their first win of the season on Monday night, beating the Denver Nuggets 134-114 behind a breakout performance from rookie Yaxel Lendeborg.
Lendeborg ended with a career-high 31 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, helping the Warriors pull away after a competitive first half. Steph Curry added 24 points on a perfect 8 for 8 from the field, and 3 for 3 from long range, while Brandin Podziemski finished with 18 points, seven rebounds, and five assists. A large chunk of Lendeborg's points came in the third quarter as well, with Curry and Draymond Green sitting, showcasing his ability to take over as the Warriors' go-to option.
After the game, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr offered some incredibly high praise for the rookie.
"He's strong as an ox and skilled," Kerr said of Lendeborg. "Basically in all the critical moments of the game, we just put the ball in his hands. And for a rookie to be that advanced already, it's extremely rare. But it's exciting because I think he's going to get a lot better too."
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Lendeborg was selected 11th overall by Golden State in the 2026 NBA Draft after starring at Michigan. The 6-foot-9 forward has a 7-foot-3 wingspan and entered the league as an experienced, versatile prospect known for his rebounding, defensive playmaking, passing, and ability to handle the ball, a unique combination for a player of his size.
Those strengths also perfectly fit what Golden State needed. Lendeborg can hold down the paint, push the ball in transition, attack mismatches, and find open teammates, giving the Warriors another player who can create offense rather than rely solely on Curry. His physicality also adds another element to their offense, which had been missing during parts of last season.
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While it's still early, Lendeborg has legitimate superstar potential. His 3-point shooting and defensive consistency still need work, but the early signs have been encouraging, and he clearly already has the full support of his coaches and teammates. Through four games, he's averaging 21.8 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 33.3 minutes per game, shooting 45% from the floor and 34.6% from long range, quickly emerging as the early favorite for Rookie of the Year.
Golden State's upcoming schedule includes a road game in Minnesota on Wednesday, followed by home games against the Lakers, Clippers, Suns, Heat, and Magic next week.