Nov 9, 2026 · 1h 1m
Warriors and Lakers test the West’s new hierarchy
Are The Warriors & Lakers Legitimate Threats In The West? + Underrated Trade For Thunder
Golden State and Los Angeles are forcing an early reassessment of the Western Conference while Oklahoma City weighs how aggressively to build around its emerging core.
- 1Stephen Curry’s scoring surge and Yaxel Lindeberg’s unexpected creation have powered Golden State’s seven-game winning streak.
- 2Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves have made the Lakers’ 9-2 start look like a structural offensive shift, not a hot streak.
- 3Oklahoma City’s Nate Clifford trade reflects a broader strategy of affordable development, roster flexibility, and careful contract timing.
Don't miss
Austin Reaves’ 43-point performance in Detroit becomes the clearest evidence that the Lakers’ offense has gained another major creator.
The brief
Brian Windhorst and Tim MacMahon sort through the NBA’s early surprises, with Golden State’s resurgence and the Lakers’ 9-2 start emerging as the central Western Conference questions.
Stephen Curry’s scoring run has driven a seven-game winning streak, but rookie Yaxel Lindeberg’s scoring and creation have changed how much the Warriors ask from their star.
The Lakers’ offense is thriving behind Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, while Kristaps Porzingis’ decision to step away raises unusual questions about contracts, taxes, and roster strategy.
Oklahoma City’s Nate Clifford trade fits its preference for affordable, buy-low development, while AJ Mitchell’s future and new lottery rules complicate the Thunder’s next decisions.
The Celtics–76ers preview closes on Boston’s strong start and the unresolved public tension between Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, a storyline neither player will discuss.
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