The Golden State Warriors entered the offseason empty-handed in their pursuits of high-profile stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James, leaving many observers to view their roster moves as underwhelming. But the front office’s decision to draft 24-year-old Yaxel Lendeborg with the No. 11 overall pick has dramatically altered the team’s trajectory.
Lendeborg arrived in the Bay Area fresh off leading Michigan to an NCAA championship, carrying expectations that he could contribute immediately. That gamble has paid early dividends. Through his first five games, the 6-foot-9 forward is averaging 22 points on 47.5% shooting, alongside 9.2 rebounds, four assists, and one steal per contest.
His historic start puts him in elite company. Lendeborg is the first player since Shaquille O’Neal to average at least 20 points and nine rebounds over his first five career games. Furthermore, he joined O’Neal, Patrick Ewing, and David Robinson as the only players in the draft lottery era to tally at least 85 points and 35 rebounds through their first four appearances.
Those numbers have provided a crucial lifeline for a Warriors roster currently battling significant injuries. Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody are sidelined for the opening months of the season, while Kristaps Porzingis remains out indefinitely due to an undisclosed health-related issue. With the supporting cast thinned out, Lendeborg has stepped into an immediate role as a reliable second scorer alongside Stephen Curry, sparking an early Rookie of the Year campaign.
Teammate Draymond Green offered high praise for the rookie on a recent episode of his podcast, declaring that the organization has “found the next face of the franchise.”
Beyond his box-score production, Lendeborg has brought a fearless competitive edge to the floor. He recently drew attention for verbal exchanges with Luka Doncic, noting bluntly that he lost respect for the star guard due to his on-court complaining.
For Curry, who turns 39 this season, the rookie’s rapid ascent offers a welcome opportunity to keep competing at the highest level. After guiding the franchise to four championships between 2015 and 2022, Curry has watched the Warriors fail to advance past the second round of the postseason over the last four years. Lendeborg’s impact was on full display during a recent 119-114 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Target Center on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, where Curry poured in 44 points—including 19 in the second quarter—to secure consecutive wins and improve Golden State’s record to 2-3 ahead of a Friday matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers.
Witnessing Curry’s brilliance firsthand has only heightened the rookie’s drive to ensure the modern-day dynasty remains relevant in the Western Conference.
“I caught myself shaking my head like, wow, a couple times,” Lendeborg told reporters following the victory in Minneapolis. “लेकिन once he got out the game, it’s like this is my opportunity to help him out. Help his greatness be worthwhile.”
If the Warriors can weather their current injury crisis and secure a playoff berth, a healthy core featuring Curry, Green, Lendeborg, and a returning Butler could pose a formidable challenge. For now, Lendeborg is focused on making sure Curry’s late-career magic translates into victories.
