Warriors' Jimmy Butler Jonathan Kuminga Expected Play Lakers Opener

The Golden State Warriors are set to begin the 2025-26 NBA season against the Los Angeles Lakers, with positive injury updates for key players Jimmy Butler and Jonathan Kuminga. Both forwards, who had been dealing with minor ankle inflammation, practiced leading up to the opener and are confirmed to start without limitations. Butler, entering his first full season with the Warriors after a midseason trade last year, averaged 17.9 points and nearly six assists last season, while Kuminga, a 23-year-old forward, averaged 15.3 points in 2024-25. The Warriors also bolstered their roster during the offseason by signing several players including Al Horford and Seth Curry, aiming for a top seed in the Western Conference. Additionally, newcomer Will Richard, a promising guard and 2025 NCAA champion, has impressed coaches and teammates during preseason, potentially earning minutes in the season opener. These developments position the Warriors as strong contenders as they start their campaign against a division rival Lakers team also facing some injury concerns.