LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jimmy Butler poured in 31 points, Stephen Curry added 23, and the Golden State Warriors spoiled Luka Doncic’s dazzling debut with the Los Angeles Lakers, pulling out a 119–109 win Tuesday night in both teams’ season opener.
LeBron James was sidelined for the first season opener of his 23-year career, nursing a sciatica issue that’s expected to keep him out until mid-November. Without their superstar, the Lakers leaned heavily on Doncic, who nearly delivered a one-man show.
The Slovenian star finished with 43 points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists, marking the 47th time in his career — and third since joining the Lakers — that he’s scored 40 or more. But despite his effort, Los Angeles dropped its ninth opening game in the past 10 years. Doncic struggled from deep, connecting on just 2 of 10 from beyond the arc.
Golden State took control early in the second half, opening on a 19–4 run that pushed the lead to 17. Austin Reaves fueled a late Lakers push, scoring 13 of his 26 points in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to 105–99, but the Warriors never lost their composure.
Butler was relentless at the line, sinking all 16 of his free throws, while Curry hit a dagger three in the final minute — his only points of the fourth quarter — to seal the victory. Jonathan Kuminga chipped in 17 points, and Buddy Hield hit five threes in his Warriors debut.
Draymond Green had a quiet night offensively with eight points and an early technical from the bench, but his late three-pointer with 3:33 remaining stopped the Lakers’ comeback cold.
For Los Angeles, newly acquired Deandre Ayton finished with 10 points and six boards, and Marcus Smart added nine. Veteran Al Horford, making his first appearance in a Warriors uniform, hit a three-pointer on his opening attempt — the first shot of his 19th NBA season.