VEN without LeBron James, star power will be on full display when the Golden State Warriors visit the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday (Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025) for the NBA’s Opening Night doubleheader.
Stephen Curry begins his 17th season leading the Warriors, while Luka Doncic opens his first full campaign in Los Angeles after being traded from Dallas last February.
James’ record 23rd NBA season will be delayed for up to a month as he recovers from sciatica on his right side. In his absence, Doncic and rising guard Austin Reaves will anchor the Lakers’ offense, with Gabe Vincent expected to start in James’ place.
The Lakers will also unveil new additions Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia. Forward Maxi Kleber, who joined in the same trade as Doncic but never played last season, is set to make his Lakers debut.
“Honestly, I think we have a great team,” Doncic said. “We have what we need to compete for the championship… We’re going for it.”
Los Angeles, the No. 3 seed in last season’s Western playoffs, fell in the first round to Minnesota. The Timberwolves also ousted Golden State, which lost four straight after Curry suffered a hamstring injury in Game 1.
Now healthy at 37, Curry leads a veteran Warriors core featuring Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, though both are also deep into their 30s. Butler, 36, is expected to play after missing most of the preseason with an ankle injury, while Moses Moody (calf) remains sidelined.
“You take advantage of the offseason, get healthy, and prepare,” Curry said. “We’re excited and ready to go.”
The Warriors added 39-year-old Al Horford for depth and leadership but plan to manage his minutes. Young forwards Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski will provide energy, though both dealt with minor
preseason injuries.
Turnovers remain Golden State’s biggest concern after committing at least 20 in every preseason game. “We definitely had a turnover problem,” head coach Steve Kerr admitted. “But when the lights go on Tuesday, our guys will be ready.” / From the wires