This Tuesday, the Los Angeles Lakers face the Golden State Warriors to kick off the new NBA season. They will play without LeBron James, but Luka Doncic will lead the team. The rising star recently shared his excitement about this highly anticipated matchup, which has fans across the league eagerly awaiting tip-off.
Both teams aim to start the season with a victory. The Crypto.com Arena will host the clash, featuring Steph Curry and other standout players ready to deliver their best as the 2025-26 season begins. Fans expect a high-energy, competitive game from the opening whistle.
A highly anticipated game for NBA fans
According to Athlonsports, Luka Doncic has already established himself as a key player for the Lakers. Before facing the Warriors, he told reporters, “It’s definitely an exciting game.”
Even though LeBron James will miss the game due to a sciatic nerve injury, the matchup promises top-level basketball. Contrary to fan expectations, there will be no showdown between Curry and LeBron this time. Fans will have to wait until February 2026 for that long-awaited face-off.
Luka Dončić discusses his excitement for his first season opener as a Laker, how he views this matchup vs. Golden State, starting the season without LeBron, and his respect for Steph Curry. pic.twitter.com/8H42qxo3XM
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) October 21, 2025
During a press session, journalists asked Doncic about his rival. The 6-foot-6 guard replied, “I don’t know if it’s a rivalry or not, but obviously, Steph versus LeBron, everyone in the world will watch… Going against Steph is very exciting, but it’s going to be tough. I don’t know if it’s a rivalry, but it’s definitely an exciting game.”
Doncic is determined to challenge the Warriors’ star. Even without LeBron on the court, he possesses the talent and potential to lead the Lakers to victory against Curry.
Historically, the Lakers have held the edge over the Warriors. Last season, their matchups ended 3-1 in favor of Los Angeles. However, Golden State won the most recent game on April 3, showing that nothing is guaranteed in this encounter. Fans should expect a thrilling, closely contested game with high stakes for both teams.
