October 26, 2026 | NBA Game Recap | Ethical Sports Takes
The Golden State Warriors earned their first victory of the 2026–27 NBA season Monday night, defeating the Denver Nuggets 134–114 at Ball Arena.
Yaxel Lendeborg led Golden State with 31 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists, while Stephen Curry delivered a perfect shooting performance, scoring 24 points without missing a shot.
First Quarter: Denver Takes Early Control
Denver opened the game with the stronger offensive rhythm, using Nikola Jokic’s playmaking and Jamal Murray’s scoring to establish an early advantage.
The Nuggets built an eight-point lead as Golden State struggled to consistently contain Denver’s offense.
However, the Warriors kept themselves within striking distance, getting contributions from Lendeborg and their supporting cast.
Denver finished the opening quarter ahead 32–28.
Second Quarter: Golden State Finds Its Rhythm
Golden State’s bench helped shift the momentum early in the second quarter.
Georges Niang and Al Horford contributed outside shooting, giving the Warriors additional offensive options as Denver struggled to defend the perimeter.
Although the Nuggets briefly regained control, Golden State responded with a 13–4 run to close the first half.
Lendeborg was particularly impressive, reaching 15 points before halftime and establishing himself as one of Golden State’s most effective offensive players.
The Warriors entered halftime leading 60–56.
Third Quarter: Curry Sparks the Separation
The third quarter belonged to Golden State.
After scoring only three points in the first half, Curry became much more aggressive offensively, helping the Warriors take control.
Golden State opened the half with a 20–9 run, extending its lead to 80–65.
Denver struggled to respond defensively as the Warriors continued finding opportunities both around the basket and beyond the arc.
Lendeborg maintained his strong performance, while Brandin Podziemski provided additional scoring.
Golden State outscored Denver 40–28 in the period, taking a commanding 100–84 advantage into the fourth quarter.
Fourth Quarter: Warriors Finish the Job
Denver needed a strong defensive effort to mount a comeback, but Golden State never allowed the Nuggets to seriously threaten its lead.
The Warriors continued attacking Denver’s defense, maintaining control throughout the final period.
Frustration eventually boiled over for Aaron Gordon, who was ejected after receiving two technical fouls.
Lendeborg completed his outstanding evening with 31 points and 12 rebounds, while Curry finished with 24 points on perfect 8-for-8 shooting, including three made three-pointers.
Golden State finished with 22 three-pointers on 50% shooting from beyond the arc.
The Warriors closed out the contest with a convincing 134–114 victory.
EST’s Take
Golden State desperately needed a performance like this after opening the season with three consecutive losses.
Curry’s efficiency was remarkable, but Lendeborg’s performance was arguably the biggest positive. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate gave Golden State another offensive weapon.
For Denver, the defensive issues are becoming difficult to ignore. Allowing 134 points at home and getting outrebounded 50–36 is not the standard expected from a championship contender.
The Warriors improve to 1–3, while the Nuggets fall to 1–2.
Final Score: Golden State Warriors 134, Denver Nuggets 114
No bias, just sports.
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