SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors officially introduced their newest draft picks Friday, showcasing two versatile players the franchise hopes can contribute quickly as Summer League begins next week.
The team introduced first-round pick Yaxel Lendeborg and second-round selection Lajae Jones during a news conference at Chase Center. Both players expressed excitement about joining a championship-caliber organization led by Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
For Lendeborg, a 6-foot-9 forward from Michigan, the moment still hasn't fully sunk in.
“I don't think it's gonna sink in until I put that jersey on for the first time,” Lendeborg said. “But as of right now, everything feels surreal and feels like a dream.”
Lendeborg was selected with the 11th overall pick after a standout sophomore season with the Wolverines, where he averaged 18.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.8 blocks per game. His ability to guard multiple positions and facilitate offense made him an attractive prospect for a Warriors team that values versatility. Draft night was not without drama – reports indicated that owner Joe Lacob and general manager Mike Dunleavy had an animated discussion before ultimately settling on Lendeborg. The pick was widely praised by analysts, who noted his high basketball IQ and fit in Golden State's motion offense.
“Multi-skilled, versatile player that we think can play both sides of the ball,” Dunleavy said. “He has tremendous size and a great feel for the game. And he's a tremendous teammate, so we think he'll fit in real well here.”
Lendeborg, who once admitted he “used to hate” Stephen Curry as a fan of Kyrie Irving, now finds himself sharing a locker room with the two-time MVP. He said he has already reached out to Curry and is eager to learn from him. “Steph is the best shooter ever, and I know I can pick his brain,” Lendeborg added. “I'm ready to do whatever it takes to help this team win.”
The 6-foot-9 forward has already drawn comparisons from fans to veteran Draymond Green because of his defensive potential. While Lendeborg is not expected to replicate Green's production immediately, his length, lateral quickness and anticipation have Warriors fans optimistic.
“The expectation is not Draymond, but it would be nice if we get something close, in terms of defensively,” Warriors fan Savan Patel said.
Warriors add shooting with Jones
The Warriors added more versatility by selecting Jones, a 6-foot-7 guard out of Kent State, in the second round (42nd overall). Known for his outside shooting and ability to attack the basket, Jones averaged 16.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.1 assists as a senior while shooting 39% from three-point range. His athleticism and quick release make him a natural fit in Golden State's up-tempo system.
Jones said he's eager to fit into Golden State's style and play alongside Stephen Curry.
“Be in shape, play fast, knock down threes,” Jones said of his approach. “And look for number 30 occasionally. That's always a good thing, too.”
Warriors fan Jauhi Patel believes learning from Curry could accelerate Jones' development.
“Coming in and learning from Steph, I think could actually be beneficial,” Patel said.
Jones, who grew up in Akron, Ohio, said he has always admired Curry's work ethic and leadership. “Steph is the ultimate professional. I'm going to watch everything he does – how he prepares, how he moves without the ball. I want to absorb as much as possible.”
Both rookies are expected to participate in the California Classic Summer League, which tips off next week in Sacramento. The Warriors will face the Kings, Lakers and Heat in a series of exhibition games designed to evaluate young talent. Lendeborg and Jones will likely see significant minutes as they adjust to the NBA pace.
Free agency speculation looms
While the draft brought new talent to the roster, attention is quickly shifting to free agency as the Warriors look to maximize the championship window of their veteran core. Golden State has several key decisions to make, including potential contract extensions for Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, as well as whether to exercise team options on role players.
Speculation has once again linked Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James to Golden State following his successful partnership with Curry on Team USA during the 2024 Olympics. The two legends have often discussed playing together, and with LeBron turning 41 next season, a move to the Bay Area could extend his career. However, many fans remain skeptical after years of similar offseason rumors.
“LeBron and Steph would always make a great team,” Savan Patel said. “But it's been in talks for many years. Every summer we hear LeBron might be coming to the Bay Area, and he never does.”
Dunleavy declined to comment on free agency during Friday's news conference, saying the team's focus remains on the draft and Summer League. “We're always looking to improve our roster, but we're excited about the young players we've added. Free agency will take care of itself,” he said.
The Warriors enter the offseason with a projected payroll of $185 million, leaving limited cap space to add big-name free agents. However, they hold a $12 million mid-level exception and could explore sign-and-trade scenarios. Rumors of a potential deal involving Andrew Wiggins or Chris Paul have circulated, but no concrete offers have emerged.
Background on Golden State's draft history
The Warriors have a mixed track record with first-round picks in recent years. They selected James Wiseman with the second overall pick in 2020, but the center never fully developed and was traded in 2023. However, they hit on Jonathan Kuminga (7th overall in 2021) and Moses Moody (14th overall in 2021), both of whom have become rotation mainstays. In 2023, they selected Brandin Podziemski with the 19th pick, and he quickly earned All-Rookie honors.
Lendeborg is seen as a potential cornerstone on defense, while Jones could provide immediate shooting off the bench. The Warriors are also high on last year's second-round pick, Quinten Post, a 7-footer from Boston College who showed promise in the G League.
The franchise's philosophy under Dunleavy has been to prioritize skill, IQ and fit over raw athleticism. Both Lendeborg and Jones fit that mold, which bodes well for their integration into the system.
What's next for the rookies
The NBA deadline for team and player options is Tuesday, June 30, and Golden State's rookie class will make its debut shortly afterward when the California Classic Summer League tips off next week. The Warriors are expected to field a competitive Summer League roster, possibly including second-year players Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis, as well as undrafted free agents.
Lendeborg and Jones have already begun individual workouts with the team's player development staff, focusing on strength and conditioning, shooting mechanics and defensive schemes. Lendeborg said he is working on improving his outside shot, while Jones is refining his playmaking to become a more complete guard.
“The coaches have been great,” Jones said. “They're giving us a lot of information, but it's up to us to apply it. I'm ready to put in the work.”
The Warriors' front office has emphasized that patience will be key, but with an aging core of Curry (38), Green (36) and Klay Thompson (36), there is urgency to develop young players who can contribute immediately. Lendeborg and Jones will have every opportunity to earn rotation minutes during the season, especially if the team decides to rest veterans on back-to-backs.
As the rookie class prepares for its debut, attention is also turning to free agency, with fans again speculating about whether the Warriors will make a major roster move this offseason. For now, though, the focus is on the two young players who will soon wear the blue and gold.
Source: Yahoo Sports News