As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 season, head coach Steve Kerr finds himself at a pivotal juncture. With the team having utilized 27 different starting lineups last season, establishing a consistent and effective rotation is paramount for their success this year. Kerr’s strategic focus during this period is to identify the optimal combination of players that will not only perform as a cohesive starting unit but also fortify the bench.
The Klay Thompson Conundrum
The shooting guard position has become a significant area of uncertainty. Previously held by Klay Thompson, who contributed eight to ten 3-point attempts per game, this spot is now up for grabs. Among those vying for the role are Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield. Kerr acknowledges the complexities of finalizing the lineup, stating, "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?"
Competing for the Center Position
At the center position, Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are in a tight competition, while Draymond Green is predicted to retain his position, providing stability to the defensive lineup. Kerr also considers the versatility of players like Kyle Anderson, who can fulfill small-ball center duties if needed. This flexibility could be crucial as the Warriors aim to adapt to various opponents throughout the season.
Frontcourt Dynamics
The competition extends to the frontcourt, where Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins are battling for a key spot. Wiggins, in particular, has caught Kerr’s attention for his potential from beyond the arc. "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 explained. This emphasis on perimeter shooting underlines Kerr's strategy to build on the Warriors’ fourth-place ranking in 3-point attempts from the previous season.
The Steph Curry Constant
Amidst the uncertainty, one thing remains clear: Stephen Curry's position in the starting lineup is unequivocal. Known for his remarkable shooting prowess and court leadership, Curry serves as the cornerstone of Kerr’s strategy. Speaking about the lineup dynamics, Curry emphasized versatility, stating, "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."
Reimagining the Warriors
This season carries a sense of renewal for the team. "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 remarked. As much as the uncertainty presents a challenge, it opens avenues for innovation and growth. "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," he added.
The Road Ahead
Kerr’s approach underscores the importance of adaptability and strategic flexibility. By fostering healthy competition among players and leveraging their diverse skill sets, the Warriors aim to sculpt a lineup that exhibits both offensive firepower and defensive resilience. As training camp progresses, the ultimate goal for Kerr and the Warriors is to uncover that quintessential mix of players who can seamlessly blend their individual strengths to create a formidable collective force on the court.