Playing alongside veterans was never easy, especially with the growing physicality in the NBA. Yaxel Lendeborg, for his part, learned this lesson up close from Draymond Green during the Golden State Warriors' matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday.
The veteran forward wanted the rookie to stop playing cautiously and attack the basket with more physicality. Lendeborg revealed that Green delivered an explicit message after one of his turnovers, telling him exactly what he needed to do the next time he got the ball.
“He said, ‘Next time you get it, drive it into somebody’s f—ing chest,’” Lendeborg said.
The rookie took the advice to heart and applied it in his next opportunity. He drove through former Warriors teammate Jonathan Kuminga, who was defending him during the game.
Lendeborg admitted that he struggled with Minnesota's physical defense and did not make decisive enough moves. He finished with 26 points and eight rebounds but also committed seven turnovers in his fifth NBA appearance.
“I played hella soft today,” Lendeborg said while reflecting on his performance.
Article Continues BelowThe rookie added that he had given in to the pressure created by Minnesota's grabbing and pulling. He also acknowledged that some of his turnovers came from poor decisions rather than defensive pressure.
Despite the mistakes, Lendeborg's early production has impressed Golden State. The rookie has quickly become an important contributor while the Warriors navigate injuries to several key players.
His relationship with Green could also prove valuable as he adjusts to the NBA. The veteran's demanding approach is helping Lendeborg understand the physicality and decision-making required at the professional level.