Tue Oct 21 23:30:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Warriors Defeat Lakers in Season Opener, Despite Doncic’s 43-Point Outburst

LOS ANGELES, CA – The Golden State Warriors started their season with a resounding 119-109 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday night, despite a herculean 43-point performance from Lakers star Luka Doncic. Jimmy Butler led the charge for the Warriors with 31 points, while Stephen Curry contributed 23, as Golden State overcame Doncic’s dominance and a rare absence from LeBron James.

James, sidelined with sciatica, watched from the bench as Doncic poured in 43 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and dished out 9 assists. However, the Slovenian superstar struggled from beyond the arc, hitting only 2 of 10 three-point attempts.

Jonathan Kuminga chipped in with 17 points for the Warriors, while Buddy Hield added five 3-pointers, signaling a potential shift in offensive roles for the veteran squad. Butler was perfect from the free-throw line, sinking all 16 of his attempts, and Curry iced the game with a late three-pointer in the final minute.

Despite the loss, Austin Reaves led a fourth-quarter comeback attempt for the Lakers, scoring 13 of his 26 points in the final frame. However, Draymond Green’s timely three-pointer late in the fourth halted any chance of a Lakers’ comeback.

Lakers newcomer Deandre Ayton contributed 10 points and 6 rebounds in his debut, while Marcus Smart added 9 points. Al Horford, making his Warriors debut, nailed a 3-pointer on his first shot of the night.

Looking Ahead:

  • Warriors: Host the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night.
  • Lakers: Host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday night.

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