Warriors head coach Steve Kerr announced that rookie Yaxel Lendeborg will start the season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers following an impressive preseason. Meanwhile, Stephen Curry is cleared to play, but Brandin Podziemski remains questionable due to back pain.
The Golden State Warriors are rounding out their starting lineup for their season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed earlier reports that rookie Yaxel Lendeborg is set to start for their first match of the season against the Lakers.
"What's really obvious after three weeks is that he's a starter, so he'll be in the starting lineup Wednesday," the head coach explained the situation with Lendeborg.
The initial starting lineup was named by Steve Kerr as Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos, Yaxel Lendeborg and Draymond Green.
While there was doubt that Curry could play after he tweaked his ankle in practice on Sunday, Kerr confirmed that the legendary shooter will be ready against LA.
However, there is uncertainty around Podziemski's health as he missed their practice due to experiencing lower back pain and is questionable for the season opener.
Lendeborg impressed through the preseason
Yaxel Lendeborg
Yaxel Lendeborg
Through four preseason appearances, the 6-foot-9 rookie has averaged 15.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, including 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in the latest meeting with the Lakers.
Lendeborg has already made a strong impression since the Warriors selected him with the No. 11 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Before playing solid minutes in the preseason, Lendeborg led Golden State to a Summer League championship, claiming the MVP honors.
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