The Lakers’ season-opening rout exposed the Warriors’ thin, aging frontcourt: Walker Kessler went 12-for-12 while Golden State relied on an undersized Draymond Green and 40-year-old Al Horford with Kristaps Porziņģis and Charles Bassey unavailable. The blowout sharpened a familiar concern for Warriors fans: the team needs a dependable center if it hopes to stay competitive and give Stephen Curry and Green a chance to chase another title.

By the Numbers
  • Kessler made all 12 of his field-goal attempts.
  • He became the second Laker to shoot at least 12-for-12 in a game; Wilt Chamberlain went 14-for-14 in 1969.
  • At 40, Al Horford was among Golden State’s available frontcourt options.
Yes, But

One opening-night blowout doesn’t define the Warriors’ season, and Kessler’s historic efficiency came against a depleted frontcourt. But injuries and age have left Golden State without reliable size, making the matchup a stark warning about the roster’s vulnerability.

State of Play
  • Porziņģis is dealing with recurring symptoms of POTS and is seriously weighing his basketball future; Golden State has begun exploring trade options.
  • Bassey is out with a knee injury, further limiting the Warriors’ center depth.
  • The team’s immediate challenge is finding a way to remain competitive while its frontcourt is depleted.
What's Next

The Warriors may need to pursue a dependable center, especially if Porziņģis cannot return. The available information doesn’t establish what trade or roster moves the team will make.

Bottom Line

Golden State’s center problem is no longer just a running fan complaint: against the Lakers, it became a glaring roster weakness. If the Warriors want to protect their championship hopes, they need frontcourt help that can stay on the floor.