NBA Roundup: Kuminga’s Strong Start, Lakers Feel LeBron’s Absence, Nuggets Secure Young Core
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San Francisco — Forward Jonathan Kuminga opened the new season with a standout performance, helping the Golden State Warriors defeat the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night. The third-year wing recorded 17 points, nine rebounds and six assists, including 13 points in the third quarter when he knocked down three three-pointers. Late in the game he grabbed a critical offensive rebound that set up a Stephen Curry basket that sealed the victory.
“It was one of my goals coming into this year … just trying to be on the boards, guarding the best players,” Kuminga said after the game. Teammate Draymond Green praised the 21-year-old’s late rebound, calling it the type of “big play” expected from someone with “superstar potential.”
Lakers Miss Their Leader
The Lakers played without 40-year-old forward LeBron James and struggled to generate late-game offense. Head coach JJ Redick admitted the team lacked a reliable option against Golden State’s zone defense. “I thought, ‘That’d be great to have LeBron just to throw it to the high post,’” Redick said.
Although sidelined, James contributed after the final buzzer by joining the team’s film review. Redick called the veteran’s questions and feedback “so healthy” for the roster.
Nuggets Exercise Options on Strawther and Holmes
Denver moved to keep two young players in the fold by exercising 2026-27 team options for guard Julian Strawther and forward DaRon Holmes, according to Altitude Sports’ Katy Winge.
- Julian Strawther: The 2023 first-round pick averaged nine points on 43 percent shooting as a rookie. His fourth-year option guarantees a $4.8 million salary for 2026-27 and makes him eligible for an extension next summer.
- DaRon Holmes: The 2024 draftee missed last season with an Achilles tear but is fully cleared and expected to debut this week. His option secures $3.37 million for 2026-27; Denver will decide on a fourth-year option next fall.
Source: Hoops Wire
