The 2025-26 NBA season opened with a statement win for the Golden State Warriors, as Jimmy Butler dropped 31 points to lead his new team past Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers, 119-109, at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday night.
The matchup — the first NBA season opener without LeBron James in over two decades — showcased high drama, elite scoring, and a glimpse into the new power balance of the Western Conference.
Butler Shines in Warriors Debut, Curry and Kuminga Deliver Support
In his first regular-season game since joining the Warriors, Jimmy Butler set the tone with his signature grit and clutch scoring. Butler’s 31 points included a flawless 16-for-16 performance from the free throw line, anchoring a Golden State offense that thrived on efficiency and composure.
Stephen Curry added 23 points, hitting crucial shots late in the fourth quarter to seal the win, while Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield chipped in 17 points apiece. The Warriors shot 42.5% from three-point range (17 of 40), with Hield draining five triples and Kuminga going 4-of-6 from deep.
Golden State’s third-quarter surge — an 18-4 scoring run — proved decisive. They turned a one-point halftime lead into a 15-point advantage, outscoring the Lakers 35-25 in that frame.
“We came out with focus and intensity,” Butler said postgame. “This team knows how to win, and I’m just here to keep that fire burning.”
Doncic Explodes for 43 Points in Lakers Debut, But Missed Free Throws Prove Costly
Despite the loss, Luka Doncic dazzled in his Lakers debut, recording 43 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists in a near triple-double performance. His offensive mastery kept Los Angeles competitive even as the Warriors’ perimeter shooting stretched their defense.
Austin Reaves added 26 points and 9 assists, while Deandre Ayton, also making his Lakers debut, contributed 10 points and 8 rebounds. But poor efficiency doomed Los Angeles — they shot just 25% from three-point range (8 of 32) and a dismal 61% from the free throw line (17 of 28).
The absence of LeBron James, sidelined with sciatica, loomed large. It was the first season opener LeBron has missed in his 23-year NBA career, and his leadership and playmaking were clearly missed as the Lakers struggled in clutch moments.
“We competed hard, but missed opportunities hurt us — free throws, defense, the small things,” Lakers coach Darvin Ham said. “Luka was phenomenal, but we’ve got to clean up our execution.”
Curry, Butler Close Out Win as Warriors Display Championship Poise
When the Lakers mounted a late comeback, cutting the deficit to six points with under four minutes left, Draymond Green — returning from a preseason calf injury — hit a clutch three-pointer to halt their momentum.
Moments later, Butler’s acrobatic reverse layup and Curry’s dagger triple with 51 seconds remaining sealed the win for Golden State. Green finished with 8 points, 9 assists, and 7 rebounds, orchestrating the Warriors’ trademark ball movement.
Thunder Begin Title Defense With Thrilling Double-Overtime Win Over Rockets
Elsewhere on opening night, the Oklahoma City Thunder kicked off their championship defense with a thrilling 125-124 double-overtime victory over the Houston Rockets at Paycom Center.
Before tip-off, the Thunder unveiled their 2025 NBA championship banner and received their rings — then delivered an instant classic for their fans.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 35 points, including two clutch free throws with 2.3 seconds remaining to secure the win. Chet Holmgren added 28 points and 7 rebounds before fouling out in overtime.
For Houston, Alperen Sengun was spectacular, scoring a career-high 39 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, and hitting five three-pointers. Kevin Durant, in his Rockets debut, tallied 23 points and 9 rebounds before fouling out on the decisive play.
“We just stayed calm,” Gilgeous-Alexander said after the game. “Every possession mattered. We wanted to start this season like champions.”
Durant’s final foul — drawn by Gilgeous-Alexander on a drive to the basket — proved pivotal, ending the veteran’s debut in heartbreaking fashion. Jabari Smith Jr. missed a turnaround jumper at the buzzer, sealing the Thunder’s victory.
NBA Opening Night 2025: A Glimpse of the Season to Come
The opening night of the 2025-26 NBA season offered fans a taste of what’s to come — new rivalries, rising stars, and shifting dynamics. The Warriors’ mix of veterans and new energy, the Lakers’ high-powered offense led by Doncic, and the Thunder’s continued dominance set the stage for an electrifying year ahead.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on when LeBron James returns, how Jimmy Butler’s leadership transforms Golden State, and whether the Thunder can repeat as champions in a fiercely competitive Western Conference.
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