When the Golden State Warriors drafted Michigan forward Yaxel Lendeborg, the hope was that he could give the roster a talent who could immediately contribute. Lendeborg, through seven games, has justified his selection at No. 11. The wing has averaged 22.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.

After dropping the first three games of the year, the Warriors rolled off four consecutive wins. Amid the team’s recent success, Bill Simmons offered lofty praise, setting a high ceiling for the rookie.

Bill Simmons Touts Warriors Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg’s Early Rise

On Sunday night, in 34 minutes of play, Lendeborg scored 37 points, pulled down 4 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists in a 124-112 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. The former Michigan standout’s start earned rave reviews from media personality Bill Simmons.

“This Yaxel thing, I honestly can’t believe it. Now, he’s 24, so it makes more sense,” Simmons said on his podcast.

“Yaxel has a chance to be an All-Star. That’s how good he’s been. And I think he’s invigorated them. They didn’t even play Curry tonight, and they still won,” Simmons added.

Lendeborg at 24 years old is older than the average rookie. He started his college career at Arizona Western before transferring to UAB, and ending up at Michigan.

Playing that much college basketball and climbing the ranks gives him a different perspective than many players who stay in college for less time. Simmons continued his comments by comparing the Warriors rookie with another first-year player.

“To have him and (Cam) Boozer come into the league and be like, these actual impact guys right away is the single-most unusual thing that could happen with rookies,” Simmons added.

Cameron Boozer, whom the Memphis Grizzlies selected with the No. 3 pick, is averaging 17.3 points, 10.5 rebounds and 5.7 assists for a team that has not lost yet. Lendeborg plays a style that fits right in with the Warriors.

Upcoming matchups against Miami, Houston, Orlando and San Antonio over the next week-and-a-half could serve as a pivotal test for Lendeborg.

As the Warriors attempt to manage their aging cornerstones, the rookie’s fast start could make any inevitable transition much easier. Lendeborg isn’t trying to act as a bridge to a new era but a vital cog to keep the team competing for a strong playoff spot.