Warriors Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg Shows NBA Readiness in Preseason Play

The Golden State Warriors’ recent preseason exhibition games have highlighted the early readiness of rookie Yaxel Lendeborg. In a 124-98 victory against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, the 11th overall pick led the team with 17 points in the first half, shooting 7-for-11 from the field, including 2-for-3 from beyond the arc. Lendeborg also contributed nine rebounds in the game.

This performance follows a strong showing in summer league play, where Lendeborg was named MVP and led the Warriors to a championship. The 6-foot-9 forward is expected to make an immediate impact as a scorer and rebounder, a contribution the Warriors will need, especially with potential early-season absences of Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, and Kristaps Porzingis out indefinitely.

The Warriors' depth was also on display in the win over the Lakers. Star players Stephen Curry and Draymond Green played limited minutes, with Curry scoring 16 points in 14 minutes and Green recording eight assists in 15 minutes. Four Warriors players scored in double figures, and the team collectively amassed 44 rebounds, 32 assists, and committed only 10 turnovers.

In Wednesday's exhibition game against the Portland Trail Blazers, which the Warriors lost 123-118, a significant portion of the roster, including Curry, Green, and Lendeborg, did not travel. This provided an opportunity for players competing for roster spots. Dalen Terry, on an Exhibit 9 contract, nearly achieved a triple-double with 23 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists, alongside four steals. Miles Kelly, eligible for a two-way contract, scored 24 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out six assists. Two-way player Malevy Leons struggled, recording as many turnovers as made shots.

Despite the loss, the performances from players like Terry and Kelly suggest potential depth for the Warriors as the regular season approaches.