Warriors rookie steals spotlight from Steph Curry and Lakers in impressive preseason comeback

Warriors rookie steals spotlight from Steph Curry and Lakers in impressive preseason comeback originally appeared on The Sporting News.
Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Golden State Warriors entered Tuesday night’s preseason matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers with several important questions about their roster.

By the end of the evening, rookie Yaxel Lendeborg had provided another encouraging answer.

Golden State defeated Los Angeles 101-89 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, overcoming a 13-point halftime deficit with a dominant second-half performance. Lendeborg finished with 17 points, five rebounds and four assists in fewer than 24 minutes, continuing an impressive preseason for the rookie.

The performance was especially important because the Warriors were experimenting with different lineup combinations while several established players rested. Golden State played without Kristaps Porzingis and Al Horford, creating additional opportunities for younger contributors.

Lendeborg made the most of his chance.

Lendeborg continues making strong impression

The Warriors have been searching for effective combinations that allow Stephen Curry to operate with enough shooting and movement around him.

17 points. 5 boards. 4 dimes. 2 steals. @Yaxel_Lendeborg helps guide Golden State to victory in preseason action in Las Vegas 🤩 https://t.co/G6XeFBOgiz

— NBA (@NBA) October 14, 2026

Lendeborg’s offensive versatility could help solve that problem.

The rookie demonstrated an ability to score, contribute on the glass and create opportunities for teammates against Los Angeles. He had already produced 23 points, 10 rebounds and six assists during Golden State’s previous victory over Sacramento.

Tuesday’s performance provided another encouraging indication that he could become a useful contributor during the regular season.

The Warriors still have defensive questions to answer, particularly when opponents attack their younger frontcourt players. However, Lendeborg’s offensive production has made him one of the team’s most interesting preseason developments.

Lakers waste Austin Reaves’ explosive first half

Los Angeles appeared positioned for a victory after building a 63-50 halftime advantage. Austin Reaves was particularly impressive, scoring 25 points during the opening two quarters.

The Lakers repeatedly found opportunities to attack Golden State’s defense, especially with Draymond Green unavailable. However, the second half belonged entirely to the Warriors.

Golden State outscored Los Angeles 51-26 after halftime, including a 29-13 advantage in the fourth quarter. The Lakers struggled to maintain their offensive rhythm once the Warriors improved their defensive intensity.

Luka Doncic did not play, limiting the conclusions that can be drawn about Los Angeles’ regular-season potential. Still, the dramatic change between halves illustrated how much work both teams have remaining before opening night.

MORE: Anthony Edwards sends warning to NBA as Knicks suffer another ugly preseason loss

Golden State has an interesting decision ahead

Curry finished with 11 points, while Lendeborg supplied one of the team’s most encouraging performances. Golden State improved to 3-2 in preseason play and will conclude its exhibition schedule against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Coach Steve Kerr must determine how much responsibility to give his younger players when the regular season begins. Lendeborg is making that decision increasingly interesting.

The Warriors entered the preseason knowing their veteran stars would carry much of the responsibility. Finding another reliable contributor could make their roster considerably more dangerous.

Tuesday’s comeback suggested Lendeborg deserves serious consideration for that opportunity.