Warriors Will Play Lakers in Las Vegas This Wednesday
The preseason matchup at T-Mobile Arena arrives as the NBA weighs Las Vegas for a future expansion team.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Gambling
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The Golden State Warriors are set to face the Los Angeles Lakers at T-Mobile Arena this Wednesday, October 14, 2026. This preseason visit occurs as league officials formally identify Las Vegas as a primary candidate for team expansion.
Why it matters
The NBA is evaluating Las Vegas and Seattle for expansion, with a target date as early as 2028 to potentially adjust national television scheduling for the Western Conference. Residents may see impact on local sports infrastructure as owners present plans for new venues.
The NBA is considering expansion to Las Vegas by 2028, with current league evaluation focusing on the valley's capacity as a major sports market. The viability of such growth remains dependent on the selection of a venue for a potential future franchise.
The players
Adam Silver
The NBA league commissioner who has evaluated T-Mobile Arena for potential team use.
Gary Payton II
A 33-year-old Golden State Warriors player who attended Spring Valley Academy.
The details
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has evaluated T-Mobile Arena for potential professional use as multiple ownership groups propose plans for new event spaces. If the league moves forward with expansion, a new franchise could begin play as early as 2028. Locally, the event highlights connections like Golden State player Gary Payton II, who played four years at Spring Valley Academy.
Timeline
Wednesday, October 14, 2026: Warriors play the Lakers.
2028: Potential earliest start date for an NBA expansion team.
Beyond the Strip
This potential expansion follows the path set by the Oakland Athletics, who are also planning a move to the valley by 2028. The shift marks a growing trend of major professional leagues integrating Las Vegas into their long-term growth and stadium development plans.
Residents should anticipate heavy traffic around T-Mobile Arena on Wednesday evening. Those planning to attend should check local transit schedules as the game draws a large preseason crowd.
The takeaway
The league is moving toward a concrete 2028 timeline for adding an expansion team to the region. Keep an eye on local commission hearings regarding proposals for new entertainment venues to see how these plans shape city growth.
Further reading
For more on the changing local sports landscape, visit the Gambling section.
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