Main Story: One game into the 2026-27 season, several teams have sparked bold reactions—but the early evidence is far from definitive. Golden State looks sluggish around Stephen Curry, while Portland’s Damian Lillard–Ja Morant pairing clicked in its opener. Los Angeles newcomer Walker Kessler also made a striking debut, though one strong performance doesn’t settle questions about his place among the NBA’s elite big men.

By the Numbers
  • Minnesota attempted 50 3-pointers and made 42% in its win over Miami.
  • Kessler went 12-for-12 from the field and recorded 10 dunks in his Lakers debut.
  • Lillard and Morant combined for 36 points on 12-for-18 shooting as Portland opened with a 21-0 run.
  • Lillard scored 25 points, made 6 3-pointers and had 6 assists in 24 minutes; Morant added 8 assists.
Yes, But

These are opening-night impressions, not reliable verdicts. Curry hasn’t indicated he wants a trade, and Golden State would be unlikely to move him without his request. Kessler’s perfect shooting came against a weak Warriors front line, while questions remain about whether Morant can sustain his defense and fit alongside Lillard.

State of Play
  • Golden State’s loss exposed a roster that looked small, slow and short on support for Curry.
  • Portland’s backcourt pairing showed promise, but the opener against Phoenix was an unusually favorable test.
  • Minnesota’s shooting and athleticism suggest offensive upside, though its long-term ceiling is still unknown.
What's Next

More games will show whether Portland’s starting backcourt can defend and produce consistently, and whether Kessler’s impact holds against stronger opponents. Golden State’s front office also faces a long-term choice: keep building around Curry or consider a trade that could reshape the franchise’s future.

Bottom Line

The season’s first games offer intriguing clues, not conclusions. The biggest question is whether Golden State can give Curry a meaningful competitive runway—or whether a trade is the clearest path to a fresh start for both him and the franchise.