Yaxel Lendeborg Emerges as Key Rotation Piece for Warriors Following Strong Preseason Start

Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg has recorded 21 points, 18 rebounds, and five assists through his first 40 minutes of preseason action for the Golden State Warriors.

Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg has produced 21 points, 18 rebounds, five assists, and two blocks across his first 40 minutes of preseason play. The 6-foot-9, 241-pound wing, selected with the No. 11 pick in the June draft, has already been inserted into the starting lineup by head coach Steve Kerr. Lendeborg joined the team after leading Michigan to a national title, where he averaged 15.1 points and 6.8 rebounds per game while shooting 51.5% from the field.

Kerr described the 24-year-old as one of the team's best players already, noting his 7-foot-4 wingspan and physical readiness. The rookie is currently signed to a four-year, $28.1 million contract. Despite his early statistical success, coaching staff members including Frank Vogel have noted defensive lapses, such as failing to stay in a stance and allowing open jumpers to Rui Hachimura during a matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers.

Lendeborg’s path to the Warriors included withdrawing from the 2025 draft after a stint at UAB where he averaged 17.7 points and 11.4 rebounds. After improving his approach at Michigan, he led the Warriors' summer league team to a Las Vegas title over eight games. The organization views him as a versatile frontcourt option capable of playing small forward alongside Draymond Green or power forward in smaller lineups while veterans Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody recover from knee injuries.