The Los Angeles Lakers will be hosting the Golden State Warriors in a blockbuster game on the opening night of the 2025-26 NBA season. There will be fanfare at the Staples Center on Tuesday night as multiple stars take to the court for a titanic Western Conference clash.
While LeBron James has been sidelined since the start of the season, the LAL will look up to Luka Dončić to direct play and showcase his talents against Steph Curry and Co. at home in Los Angeles. This article will preview the heavily anticipated contest and tell you how to catch the live action on Tuesday night.
How to Watch Lakers-Warriors Opening Night Game?
Game: Golden State Warriors at Los Angeles Lakers
- Where: Crypto.com Arena | Los Angeles, Cali.
- When: 7:00 p.m. PT; Tuesday, Oct. 21
- TV: NBC
- Streaming: Peacock
What Can Fans Expect From the Lakers vs. Warriors Showdown?
Both teams underwent some changes during the offseason, while retaining their core pieces. It should be an engaging game in LA on Tuesday night, as both teams look to kick off the new season with a win.
🔥🏀 NBA OPENING NIGHT IS HERE! 🏀🔥
The wait is OVER — the lights are bright, the energy is electric, and the NBA season tips off
TONIGHT with an instant classic:
💜💛 Los Angeles Lakers vs. 💙💛 Golden State Warriors!@luka7doncic @Lakers pic.twitter.com/x5AFzOG6Mv
— Luka Global Fans (@AthleteLuka) October 21, 2025
The Warriors last won an NBA title in 2022, while the Lakers won their most recent championship during the pandemic-impacted season in 2020. Both teams have an aging roster, as they entrust seasoned stars to come up with noteworthy performances.
It will be interesting to watch on opening night how the Lakers’ new signings, Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton, adjust to their new teammates and how well they can link up with the Slovenian star point guard amid James’s absence.
Lakers vs. Warriors Expected Starting Lineups
The Lakers are expected to utilize the same starting five as they did in their last preseason game. Per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the lineup could look as follows: Dončić, Ayton, Gabe Vincent, Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura. It seems that Smart will come off the bench on opening night.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has not revealed his plans for the starting five. However, expect the starting lineup to be Curry, Draymond Green, Jimmy Butler III, Brandin Podziemski and either Al Horford or Jonathan Kuminga.
