Warriors Start Preseason with a Win

The Golden State Warriors unofficially kicked off their 2025-26 season with a solid victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, triumphing 111-103 in their first preseason game on Sunday. Star guard Stephen Curry displayed his trademark skills, scoring 14 points in just 15 minutes on 5-of-7 shooting, looking to be in mid-season form.

Despite Curry's exceptional performance, concerns linger about the supporting cast surrounding him. The offseason brought significant changes, leaving many roster spots feeling unproven. While Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green are locks for the starting lineup, the remaining two spots are still highly contested. On Sunday, Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski stepped into those roles, each showcasing their potential. Moody led the charge with 19 points on 7-of-9 shooting and is poised to solidify a three-and-D role, while Podziemski contributed four assists in 18 minutes, proving his value to coach Steve Kerr.

Roster Dynamics and Challenges

However, there are challenges ahead for the Warriors. With Draymond leading the lineup from the center position, there is concern over the team's rebounding capabilities, especially as Draymond ages at 35. The addition of 39-year-old Al Horford only complicates matters, as he too is considered undersized for many matchups and has never been a dominant rebounder.

The Warriors have various options for the starting lineup, including possibilities like Buddy Hield for shooting consistency or Jonathan Kuminga for athleticism. The team displays a newfound flexibility with lineup choices, reflecting their ability to adjust based on matchups. However, it remains unclear whether they will settle on a definitive starting five during the preseason.

Kuminga and the Young Core

As the Warriors look to the future, striking a deal with Kuminga was a lengthy process. His waiver of the implied no-trade clause hints at potential moves on the horizon if he can elevate his game. On Sunday, he demonstrated readiness by finishing with four assists and six rebounds in limited minutes, indicating that adjusting his play style could either enhance his trade value or solidify his role on the team.

The matchup against the Lakers highlighted rebounding concerns, with the Warriors narrowly edging out Los Angeles—yet the absence of LeBron James and Luka Dončić was undoubtedly felt. Moving forward, adjustments will be crucial as they face larger teams like the Nuggets and Thunder. The preseason will provide critical insights into the team’s dynamics, and the emergence of core players like Podziemski, Moody, and Kuminga will be essential for navigating challenges and preparing for potential trades later in the season.

Looking Ahead

As the Warriors embark on Curry's age-37 season, numerous elements remain in play. The preseason is a crucial time to determine the team's chemistry and effectiveness, especially regarding the veteran presence of Horford and the performance of younger talent. The way the lineup develops could dictate the urgency of pursuing trades before the February deadline. The upcoming weeks will not only define the Warriors’ path this season but also their future aspirations.