Jimmy Butler Reacts to Warriors' Yaxel Lendeborg Pick in Funny Video After NBA Draft
First-round draft pick Yaxel Lendeborg received the seal of approval from Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler.
Butler told reporters Thursday his initial impression of Lendeborg from afar is that he's outspoken and "plays tough." He believes the former Michigan star can make an immediate impact:
Bleacher Report's Zach Buckley gave the Warriors a B-minus grade for selecting Lendeborg 11th overall.
In his lone season at Michigan, the 6'9" forward averaged 15.1 points and 6.8 rebounds while shooting 51.5 percent from the field. He was a first-team All-American and the Big Ten Player of the Year.
Lendeborg's age (23) and college experience should make him a good fit for a franchise that's trying to win right now. Confidence shouldn't be an issue, either.
After getting picked by Golden State, the 2026 national champion admitted he "used to hate" Stephen Curry because of his allegiance to Kyrie Irving. He also joked he's "really not too fond" Draymond Green's close ties to alma mater Michigan State.
Despite being a rookie, Lendeborg isn't afraid to goad some of his more decorated teammates a bit.
It's no wonder why Butler likes him so much.
