Golden State Warriors' Lineup Quest: Kerr Faces Strategic Decisions
As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, head coach Steve Kerr is confronted with the complex task of establishing a consistent starting lineup. This has been a key storyline as training camp unfolds with numerous positions up for grabs, particularly the shooting guard spot once held by Klay Thompson.
The team’s strategy takes shape not only on paper but in the fierce competition on the hardwood. "The starting lineup is going to have to be dependent not only on the first five fitting, but the second fitting as well," Kerr explained. "We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off."
Shooting Guard Dilemma
The shooting guard position is notably uncertain, a stark contrast to previous seasons where it was solidly occupied by Thompson. The candidates vying for this crucial role include Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield. Kerr remains vigilant in his evaluation process, seeking not just individual excellence but the right mix to fit the Warriors' overall strategy. "There is competition across the board. It's not as simple as, 'Who is going to be the 2?' It's got to be -- 'Who is going to be the 5? Who's the 4?' We know that Steph is the 1. But what's the combination?" said Kerr.
Thompson’s legacy as a prolific 3-point shooter leaves big shoes to fill. With Thompson previously taking eight to ten 3-point shots per game, Kerr’s desire to maintain a high-volume shooting team is apparent. "I want Wigs shooting six, seven 3s. I want Brandin, I want Moses, I want De'Anthony -- I want to be a high volume shooting team," Kerr asserted. The urgency to find the right sharpshooter to step into this key role adds another layer of complexity to the Warriors' lineup decisions.
Center Competition
The battle for the center position is equally contested. Kevon Looney and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis are in the mix, with veteran presence and youthful vigor both under consideration. Additionally, Kyle Anderson offers a versatile option for small-ball center duties, allowing Kerr a breadth of tactical flexibility.
Draymond Green remains a stable component, expected to retain his position, continuing his role as a defensive anchor and emotional leader for the team. The frontcourt battle extends further with Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins competing for forward spots, underscoring the competitive spirit within the squad.
Stephen Curry: The Constant
Amidst the array of lineup uncertainties, one position remains unchallenged—Stephen Curry's role as the starting point guard. Curry's assured position provides a cornerstone around which Kerr can construct various lineup configurations. Curry himself acknowledges the competitive environment and its potential benefits. "You've got a guy who's a connector and can put the ball on the floor, create like BP, and obviously me and BP started a couple times last year. You've got Buddy who can shoot, who spaces the floor, and is a veteran. We've got a lot of options," Curry noted.
A New Chapter
The Warriors used 27 different starting lineups last season, an indicator of both the team’s adaptability and the challenges they've faced. As they embark on the new season, Kerr views this period as an opportunity for reinvention. "This feels like a new beginning for us, whereas last year felt like an extension of who we already were. It gives us a chance to reinvent ourselves a little bit," Kerr reflected.
Indeed, the path ahead requires clear evaluation and deliberate choices. The uncertainty in defining the starting lineup is seen not as a drawback but as a chance to foster a competitive atmosphere. "It's easier when you know your starting five and you know your first four guys off of the bench. Way easier as a coach knowing that. But we don't have that. So let's turn that into a positive and turn it into competition ... let's establish our identity out of that competition," Kerr emphasized.
As the Warriors navigate through their training camp, the competition for spots will undoubtedly be intense, and the eventual lineup will be the outcome of rigorous assessment and strategic planning. The countdown to the season opener has begun, and with Stephen Curry ready to lead a dynamically constructed team, the Warriors’ fans can anticipate an intriguing and competitive chapter ahead.