The 2026 NBA Draft Lottery didn’t give the Golden State Warriors a top-four pick, but landing at No. 11 could still turn into a huge win. Instead of chasing a risky long-term project, the Warriors may be in a perfect spot to grab a player who can contribute right away.
Before looking at Golden State’s possible choice, here’s how the first 10 picks could shake out:
Projected Top 10 Picks
- Washington Wizards — SF AJ Dybantsa, BYU
- Utah Jazz — G Darryn Peterson, Kansas
- Memphis Grizzlies — SF Caleb Wilson, UNC
- Chicago Bulls — C Cam Boozer, Duke
- Los Angeles Clippers — PG Keaton Wagler, Illinois
- Brooklyn Nets — PG Darius Acuff Jr., Arkansas
- Sacramento Kings — PG Kingston Flemings, Houston
- Atlanta Hawks — PG Mikel Brown Jr., Louisville
- Dallas Mavericks — PG Labaron Philon Jr., Alabama
- Milwaukee Bucks — SG Brayden Burries, Arizona
Warriors’ Predicted Pick: PF Yaxel Lendeborg, Michigan
Golden State has several forward options at No. 11, but Yaxel Lendeborg may check the most boxes.
While prospects like Nate Ament and Karim Lopez bring intriguing upside, the Warriors could lean toward a player who’s more NBA-ready. After mixed results on past “potential-based” picks like James Wiseman and Jonathan Kuminga, the front office may prioritize reliability this time around.
Why Lendeborg stands out:
- Strong defensive versatility
- NBA-ready frame at 6-foot-9, 240 pounds
- Can guard forwards and small-ball centers
- Improved outside shooting
- Smart passer with solid court vision
One of the biggest reasons Lendeborg’s stock is rising is his shooting jump late in the season. Over his final 11 college games, he knocked down an impressive 52.9% from three-point range while taking nearly five shots per game.
That outside touch adds another layer to a player who already excelled around the rim after spending years playing a center-style role at UAB.
Defensively, he could help the Warriors immediately. Golden State has needed more size and toughness in the frontcourt for years, and Lendeborg brings both. He averaged 1.1 steals and 1.2 blocks at Michigan while showing the ability to switch across multiple positions.
Karim Lopez still offers exciting long-term upside, especially at just 19 years old. He flashed defensive promise in New Zealand’s NBL and has room to grow physically. But right now, Lendeborg appears to be the safer and more complete option.
Lopez shot 32.6% from deep last season, while Lendeborg showed better decision-making and efficiency overall. Lopez may eventually become the better player, but there’s no guarantee he reaches the level Lendeborg is already showing.
The Warriors could also explore adding a true center with names like Aday Mara, Hannes Steinbach, or Jayden Quaintance still potentially available.
Still, Lendeborg feels like the type of modern “big wing” every NBA team wants — a physical forward who can defend, rebound, move the ball, and stretch the floor.
And for a team trying to stay competitive around Stephen Curry while also preparing for the future, that fit makes a lot of sense.
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