Yaxel Lendeborg in action for the Warriors at Summer League. Mandatory Credit: John Locher - Associated Press
Mandatory Credit: John Locher - Associated Press
Although the Golden State Warriors haven’t had an impressive offseason thus far, the franchise can still be confident about their latest addition: Yaxel Lendeborg. With the arrival of the Michigan forward, the Dubs have drafted a solid wing to bolster their frontcourt. But despite being a rookie, Lendeborg seems to be stepping into the media spotlight quite consistently.
Since being drafted, there has been a general understanding that Yaxel Lendeborg is unfiltered. His comments about Stephen Curry, followed by those about Draymond Green, certainly hinted at this trait. Still, the rookie’s recent comments on his livestream may demand more attention.
As a versatile wing, the 23-year-old is bound to go up against some of the best defenders the NBA has to offer. However, when discussing the prospect of facing Phoenix Suns forward Dillon Brooks, Lendeborg seemed relatively unfazed, as he reacted:
“Am I excited for the Brooks matchup? I’m going to give Dillon Brooks [the] belt, man. Stop playing, bruh.”
Yaxel Lendeborg on facing Dillon Brooks:
“I’m finna give Dillon Brooks belt. Stop playin.”
(via @GMZeroOG) pic.twitter.com/ObNjT63wdx
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 16, 2026
While it is a promising sign for a rookie to have such confidence in their ability, Yaxel Lendeborg’s confidence appears to border on arrogance in this scenario.
Dillon Brooks has strongly established himself as one of the better two-way wings in the NBA. Although he has only gained the flexibility to show off his offensive potential over the past season with the Phoenix Suns, Brooks first made a name for himself as a defensive specialist.
Apart from his strength and defensive instincts, Brooks’ competitive mindset makes him a tough matchup for most. Given that he also emerged as a borderline All-Star last season, there is enough evidence to suggest Brooks is well-suited for this matchup.
For the most part, it seems as if Yaxel Lendeborg is painting a target on his back with his comments on social media and in interviews. However, there is some reason to believe that he can hold his own in such situations, too.
Unlike most rookies, Lendeborg (23) is coming into the league with a few years of experience under his belt. Having played six years of collegiate basketball, the forward has had time to develop and cultivate his game. His familiarity with playing in a system will also be an upside, especially in Golden State’s complex motion offense.
Aside from experience, the 23-year-old has also had solid performances over the years. In his senior year at Michigan, Lendeborg averaged 15.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting 51.5% from the field and 37.2% from three-point range.
Although his scoring doesn’t necessarily stand out in comparison to some of the other players in his draft, Yaxel Lendeborg certainly made a stronger impression as an overall contributor at the Las Vegas Summer League. He averaged 14.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game on 48.4% shooting from the field and 45.9% from beyond the arc.
Hence, even though Lendeborg may be overestimating his ability to “give belt” to a player like Dillon Brooks, who is a starter-caliber wing in the league, the rookie is certainly capable of contributing to winning.
With Warriors’ superstar Stephen Curry also noting this aspect, the Dubs can look forward to the 23-year-old suiting up for Golden State in the upcoming season and potentially having an impact right off the bat.