As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, head coach Steve Kerr is tasked with solving one of the most intricate puzzles in basketball – formulating a consistent starting lineup. Last season saw the Warriors oscillate through 27 different starting lineups, a statistic they are looking to stabilize for better cohesion and performance.
Navigating the Shooting Guard Conundrum
One major uncertainty looms at the shooting guard position, previously held by Klay Thompson. This year, Kerr has a plethora of options, including Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and the sharpshooting veteran Buddy Hield. "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 stated, underscoring the emphasis on maintaining their league-leading 3-point attempts.
Stephen Curry’s role as the starting point guard remains unchanged, but surrounding him with the right mix is crucial. Kerr articulated the complexity of the situation: "The starting lineup is going to have to be dependent not only on the first five fitting, but the second fitting as well. We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off."
The Center and Frontcourt Battles
At the center position, Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are vying for the starting job. Looney’s experience and rebounding prowess are well-documented, but Jackson-Davis brings a fresh energy that could prove indispensable. Adding to the dynamic, versatile player Kyle Anderson offers an option for a small-ball center, providing more flexibility within the lineup.
Draymond Green's position seems secure, with Kerr likely counting on his defensive acumen and leadership. Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins are engaged in a spirited competition for a frontcourt spot, further heightening the sense of urgency and determination during the training camp. "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?" Kerr explained.
A New Beginning
This season feels different for the Warriors, a departure from what Kerr described as an "extension of who we already were" last year. There is an opportunity for reinvention, a chance to establish a new identity through this internal competition. As Kerr put it, "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."
Stephen Curry echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and team dynamics. "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 shared.
The challenge lies in not just finding the right five but ensuring the entire rotation harmonizes. Kerr’s strategic evaluations during training camp are geared towards a balanced assembly that can sustain high performance both in the starting unit and off the bench. As the Warriors navigate these decisions, the potential for a high-volume shooting team remains intact, with specific emphasis on perimeter prowess. Klay Thompson's role, particularly his prolific 3-point shooting, might be distributed across new faces. However, the essence of the Warriors' strategy – spacing, ball movement, and shooting – is set to remain their core identity.
In conclusion, with training camp underway, the pieces are slowly falling into place for the Golden State Warriors. Whether it’s the enduring brilliance of Curry or the fresh energy brought in by new competitors, the road ahead is lined with potential and optimism. As Kerr and his squad refine their approach, the Warriors hope to come out not just as competitors but as champions.