Kevin Durant has faced plenty of talented young players throughout his NBA career. However, the Houston Rockets veteran couldn’t resist praising the Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg for his potential.
Lendeborg made a strong impression during Wednesday's game against the Rockets and finished with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Despite Golden State's 115-108 loss, the rookie earned praise from Durant, who recognized the challenges he presents on the court.
“He’s a problem,” Durant said post-game. “You know, the matchup problem, being that tall, and being able to get that skill, too, man. I'm excited to see his career unfold, and, you know, grateful that I got to play against him tonight.”
"He's a problem."
Kevin Durant on Yaxel Lendeborg 🔥
(via @ESPNNBA) pic.twitter.com/XEY6j3SVEV
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) November 12, 2026
Lendeborg also entered the matchup with plenty of excitement about facing one of his favorite players. He grew up using Durant in NBA 2K and told the San Francisco Chronicle that he knew many of the veteran's moves.
“I'm very excited about it, man,” Lendeborg said before the game. “Try to take some moves and some knowledge, off him.”
Article Continues BelowThe matchup was equally important for Golden State after Stephen Curry left in the first quarter with right abdominal soreness. Curry managed just three points in 5:35 before exiting and did not return.
Lendeborg took on a larger offensive role in his absence and went 9-for-19 from the field and collected 10 rebounds in 36 minutes. Brandin Podziemski added 22 points, but the Warriors could not extend their eight-game winning streak.
Houston controlled the fourth quarter with timely three-pointers from Reed Sheppard and Fred VanVleet. Alperen Sengun and Amen Thompson also scored 19 points apiece to help secure the victory.