What happened: Kerr stated ahead of Sunday's game in Phoenix that the first-year player is on track to pace the roster in playing time across the 2026-27 campaign. The coaching staff plans to lean on him for extended court time and a primary offensive workload tonight.

Why it matters: The projection cements a rapid rise after Kerr said Lendeborg earned an immediate rotation role earlier this month. Entrusting a newcomer with the roster's top minute share underscores how heavily the rotation already depends on his durability.

What to watch: Lendeborg takes on a central role tonight in Phoenix as the club enters its first back-to-back set of the season.