Golden State might have found its next building block, and his name is Yaxel Lendeborg.
The Warriors have spent the last decade building a dynasty around Stephen Curry, with other pieces like Draymond Green. But as the championship window eventually closes, finding the next stepping stone of talent has become increasingly important.
Enter Lendeborg.
The 2026 first-round pick is already making a name for himself in Golden State. On Nov. 1, Lendeborg put up a career-high 37 points in a 124-112 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. He shot 13-of-19 from the field, made six three-pointers and finished with six assists.
What’s more exciting? Curry and Green didn’t play that game.
Through the first several games of his rookie campaign, Lendeborg has shown that he can be more than just another player filling up a spot on the roster. He’s currently averaging 21.5 points, seven rebounds and 3.9 assists per game, statistically landing him amongst the NBA’s rookie conversation.
What makes Lendeborg interesting is how well his game could complement Golden State’s already established stars.
Curry has built his career around shooting, off-ball movement and creating opportunities for teammates. Green, meanwhile, has made a living as one of the league’s most versatile and physically present defenders.
Lendeborg could fit seamlessly between those two styles.
His ability to score, move the ball and contribute in multiple different areas on the court allows the Warriors to rely on another offensive option without taking away what made their system fit previously.
Of course, a couple of games aren’t enough to determine whether someone will become a hard-stuck player within a franchise. The NBA season is only just beginning, and the rookies are just starting to embellish their talents on the court.
It’s hard not to get excited about what Lendeborg can become.
Golden State doesn’t need him to be the next Stephen Curry. They just need him to be Yaxel Lendeborg.
The Warriors already know what happens when the right pieces come together around Curry. They might have found another piece they can build around.
If Lendeborg continues playing this way, the future in Golden State may be brighter than we all thought.
