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Yaxel Lendeborg has made a strikingly impressive beginning to his tenure with the Golden State Warriors. When asked what stands out most about the young player's game, Chris Mullin did not hold back in his praise.
Mullin noted that Lendeborg has already altered the course of the team's season. Entering the campaign, the expectation—given that Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody were starting on the injured list—was simply to stay afloat and remain competitive until both players returned. But Lendeborg's high-level play has shifted that narrative, according to Mullin.
With other teams also dealing with injury issues, the Warriors now find themselves in fifth place and may be able to create some separation in the standings. While Stephen Curry has been phenomenal, Mullin argued that Lendeborg has been the one player who has been better and quicker than anticipated. The Warriors' offseason additions have been phenomenal and have played great, but when comparing Lendeborg to other standout young players like Cam Boozer and AJ Dybantsa, Mullin said that after eight or nine games, Lendeborg has outperformed everybody.
Mullin went so far as to say that Lendeborg would probably receive the Rookie of the Year award if the vote were held right now. Furthermore, if the Warriors keep winning and Lendeborg maintains his current level of play, Mullin believes he will be in the All-Star game—that is how well he is performing. Lendeborg is averaging 21.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists while shooting almost 50 percent from the field and 40 percent from three-point range.
Mullin acknowledged that the future is uncertain, but if the Warriors win enough games, Lendeborg will certainly be in All-Star consideration. Looking ahead, Mullin stated his belief that Lendeborg is going to be a perennial All-Star and an All-NBA type performer consistently moving forward.
Key Analysis
Mullin's comments underscore the immediate impact Lendeborg has had on the Warriors' season. His statistical output and efficiency have not only exceeded expectations but have also positioned him as a potential Rookie of the Year and All-Star candidate. If Lendeborg continues on this trajectory, he could become a cornerstone for Golden State and a consistent All-NBA talent, as Mullin projects.
Originally reported by yahoo.