The Golden State Warriors began the 2025–26 NBA season with a commanding 119–109 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena.
Jimmy Butler led the Warriors with 31 points, including a perfect 16-for-16 from the free-throw line. Stephen Curry added 23 points and three steals, while Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield each contributed 17 points. The Warriors seized control in the third quarter, outscoring the Lakers 18–4 to turn a one-point halftime lead into a 15-point advantage.
Luka Dončić delivered an impressive performance for the Lakers, scoring 43 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and dishing out nine assists. Austin Reaves added 26 points, but the Lakers struggled with their shooting, hitting only 25% of their three-point attempts and missing 11 of 28 free throws.
The absence of LeBron James, who missed the first season opener of his 23-year career due to sciatica, was felt by the Lakers. Without their star forward, the team was unable to overcome the Warriors’ offensive efficiency and defensive pressure.
The Warriors’ balanced attack and defensive stops in the second half proved too much for the Lakers, as Golden State secured a solid win to start the season. The Lakers will look to regroup and adjust as they prepare for their next game.
