Warriors and Lakers Kick Off 2026 Season Amidst Roster Shifts
Luka Dončić's Lakers host Steph Curry's Warriors in the season opener, marking the first game for the Lakers without LeBron James since 2018.
The 2026-27 NBA season tips off tonight at Crypto.com Arena with a marquee matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers. The game, scheduled for 7 p.m. PST, marks a significant moment for the Lakers franchise as it is their first season opener without LeBron James on the roster since 2018.
Luka Dončić is set to lead the Lakers' starting five, which will also feature Austin Reaves, Quentin Grimes, Jake LaRavia, and Walker Kessler. Lakers coach JJ Redick expressed optimism about his team's commitment, telling reporters, "I think this is going to be a team that is really committed to each other. And that can take you a long way."
The Golden State Warriors, led by franchise icons Steph Curry and Draymond Green, enter the game with much of their core intact. They will also be joined by De’Anthony Melton, Gui Santos, and rookie Yaxel Lendeborg, whom coach Steve Kerr confirmed would start.
Last season, the Warriors and Lakers split their four regular-season meetings, with Los Angeles winning three.
Fans without cable can watch the Warriors vs. Lakers game for free through a five-day trial of DIRECTV's live TV streaming service. The game will be broadcast on ESPN.