Yaxel Lendeborg throws down the challenge to Luka Doncic

Yaxel Lendeborg has already circled the Golden State Warriors’ next game on his calendar. On Friday, October 30, Luka Doncic’s Los Angeles Lakers visit San Francisco, giving the rookie a chance to renew a matchup that has already produced plenty of sparks after just one meeting.

First, though, there’s a performance to break down. In the 119-114 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves, Lendeborg recorded 26 points and 9 rebounds, shooting efficiently. A positive night – until you look at the turnover column: seven.

The 24-year-old didn’t try to make excuses for that number. Quite the opposite. After the game, he was the first to criticize his approach against Minnesota’s defensive pressure.

I was way too soft today. Draymond told me that, too. I let their pressure, holding and contact affect me. I was a little timid and indecisive with my movements. I’d say five of my turnovers came from that. The other two were just dumb mistakes on my part

Yaxel Lendeborg

Draymond Green pushes Lendeborg: “You have to be more aggressive”

Draymond Green spoke up during the game, urging his teammate to make better use of his size and attack with more conviction.

Lendeborg admitted he had complicated some situations with unnecessary movements instead of looking for more direct solutions. It’s something he wants to address immediately, including through film study.

I’ll watch the film, and next time I’ll attack the pressure. I wasn’t using my body well

Yaxel Lendeborg

The desire to improve is there, as is the personality. That personality has already become one of the Warriors rookie’s most recognizable traits, with several exchanges involving some of the league’s stars.

Yaxel Lendeborg vs. Luka Doncic

In that regard, the next matchup appears to come at just the right time. The Warriors host the Lakers in their NBA Cup opener, with Lendeborg ready to face Luka Doncic again after the tension in their first meeting of the season.

Asked whether he was eager to face the Slovenian star again, his answer was clear.

Absolutely. I’ll talk more about it Friday

Yaxel Lendeborg

In the first meeting, a 127-105 Lakers win, Doncic finished with 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists, while Lendeborg scored 12.

Since then, the rookie certainly hasn’t toned things down, even taking jabs at Doncic in his comments.

On Friday, he’ll have a chance to respond primarily on the court, coming off his 26-point performance against Minnesota. And judging by his words, the second chapter of this rivalry has already begun.