Warriors Edge Out Lakers in Season Opener as Luka Dončić Shines but Lacks Support
Date: October 22, 2025
Location: Los Angeles, California
The Golden State Warriors kicked off their 2025–26 NBA season with a hard-fought 119-109 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Despite a spectacular effort from Luka Dončić, the Lakers couldn’t overcome the absence of LeBron James, falling short in the closing minutes.
Dončić, entering his first full season with the Lakers after last year’s blockbuster trade from Dallas, was phenomenal. He poured in 43 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists, nearly completing a triple-double. He shot an impressive 17-of-27 from the field, though his 3-point shooting struggled at 2-of-10.
However, Dončić’s one-man show highlighted the Lakers’ biggest concern — a lack of reliable secondary scoring. With LeBron sidelined due to early-season rest, the rest of the roster combined for inconsistent offensive output. Struggles in spacing and transition defense allowed Golden State to take control early, building a 17-point lead at one stage.
For the Warriors, Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson led the way with sharp shooting and veteran composure. Curry finished with 31 points and 8 assists, while Thompson added 24 points, including several timely threes that silenced the home crowd. Draymond Green’s defensive presence and leadership helped keep Dončić’s supporting cast in check.
Golden State’s ball movement and team chemistry were evident, a product of a core that has played together for nearly a decade. Meanwhile, the Lakers looked disjointed, still searching for rhythm and identity under Dončić’s leadership.
As the season begins, one thing is clear — Luka Dončić can carry the Lakers, but not alone. Unless LeBron returns soon or others step up, Los Angeles could struggle against elite Western Conference teams like the Warriors.
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