Warriors Dominate Lakers 119–109 in NBA Season Opener Despite Doncic’s 43-Point Show

The Golden State Warriors sent a strong message to the rest of the NBA on opening night, cruising past the Los Angeles Lakers 119–109 in their Western Conference season opener on Tuesday.

Jimmy Butler led the Warriors with 31 points, while Stephen Curry added 23, as Golden State pulled away with a decisive 18–4 run early in the third quarter and never relinquished control.

Despite a 43-point effort from Luka Doncic, who also tallied 12 rebounds and nine assists, the Lakers fell short in front of their home crowd. Doncic, acquired in a blockbuster trade last February, was the lone bright spot for Los Angeles in an otherwise frustrating performance.

Lakers star LeBron James, entering his record-breaking 23rd NBA season, was sidelined with sciatica, marking the first time in his career he missed opening night.

“It’s always different when he’s not there,” said Warriors forward Draymond Green. “We’ve had great battles with Luka — he’s an incredible player — but Bron is Bron.”

The NBA’s all-time leading scorer, James continues to chase a fifth championship title, but sources suggest he may not return to the court before November. His absence was deeply felt, as the Lakers struggled to maintain rhythm and consistency.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised Butler’s all-around play, particularly his perfect 16-for-16 from the free-throw line, calling it a stabilizing factor for the team.

“He really complements Steph and Draymond,” Kerr said. “Not just the free throws but his ball security. We’ve been a high-turnover team for years, and his ability to slow the game down helps us. When you draw fouls and get to the line like that, it puts real pressure on your opponent.”

Golden State edged ahead 28–22 after the first quarter, with Butler scoring 12 points. Curry, limited to three points early, made his presence felt defensively with three steals, as the Lakers committed nine turnovers in the opening frame.

Though Los Angeles briefly surged ahead in the second quarter — capped by Rui Hachimura’s back-to-back three-pointers and a Doncic triple to take a 54–53 lead — the Warriors closed the half up 55–54 and took full control after the break.

“It’s good to start the season with a win,” Green said postgame. “But it’s a long year — it don’t really mean much. Last season we were fighting from behind; this year, we want to stay ahead early.”

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