Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg has publicly stated that he disagrees with a bold prediction made by teammate Draymond Green regarding his long-term role within the organization.
Before the current NBA season commenced, the 36-year-old Green identified the young player as the “next face of the franchise.”
Despite his rapid rise to prominence, Lendeborg recently told Prime Video that he does not share that assessment of his career trajectory, according to “No, I do not.”
The 24-year-old explained that his initial expectations for his debut season were much more modest than his current reality.
“When I first got drafted, I just expected to be a guy that sits in a corner, waits for a shot, maybe averages like seven points a game,” Lendeborg stated during his interview.
He noted that his evolution into a secondary offensive option was an outcome he never anticipated upon entering the league.
Lendeborg is currently considered a top contender for the Rookie of the Year award, a status that has drawn praise from league peers and veterans alike.
Kevin Durant recently expressed his own enthusiasm regarding the rookie’s impact, noting that “He’s a problem” when describing his performance.
Beyond his individual success, Lendeborg has also been credited for his contributions during periods of team adversity.
Green previously indicated that the emergence of specific young talents has helped stabilize the roster, noting that “two Warriors players ensure Curry’s injury won’t hurt as much” according to reports.
Lendeborg admitted he is still adjusting to his own potential, noting that he is slowly building the confidence to believe he can be great.
He frequently reminds himself that he belongs in the NBA, a sentiment he relies on to manage the pressure of his high-profile role.
While the rookie remains focused on his immediate development, observers suggest he may eventually succeed Steph Curry as the primary figure for the Golden State franchise.