As the Golden State Warriors prepare for the 2023-24 NBA season, head coach Steve Kerr is confronted with the challenge of creating a consistent starting lineup. With training camp in full swing, Kerr is focused on finding the perfect blend of players for both the starting unit and the bench, ensuring the Warriors remain competitive in the always-tough Western Conference.
Uncertainty in Key Positions
One of the most significant uncertainties heading into the season revolves around the shooting guard position, previously held by Klay Thompson. Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield are all vying for this crucial spot. Kerr will need to determine who can best fit into the team’s strategic setup while maintaining the high volume of three-point shooting for which the Warriors are renowned.
"The starting lineup is going to have to be dependent not only on the first five fitting, but the second fitting as well," said Kerr. "We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off."
Competition Across the Court
Beyond the shooting guard position, various other roles are also under scrutiny. Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are both strong contenders for the center position, while Draymond Green is likely to secure his spot as power forward. For small-ball center duties, Kyle Anderson presents an interesting option.
The frontcourt battle between Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins is particularly noteworthy. Wiggins, known for his defensive versatility and scoring ability, will need to hold off the youthful exuberance and athleticism of Kuminga.
"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 elaborated.
A High-Volume Shooting Team
Regardless of the final lineup decisions, Kerr is adamant about one thing: he wants the Warriors to remain a high-volume shooting team. This strategy is embedded in the Warriors’ DNA, having secured the fourth spot in the league for three-point attempts last season.
Kerr emphasized this approach, stating, "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."
Integration and Adaptation
Stephen Curry, the undisputed leader of the team, is set to anchor the lineup. His role is fixed, but the surrounding cast remains fluid. Curry’s perspective on the evolving lineup reflects both optimism and a focus on adaptability.
"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 commented.
A New Beginning
For Kerr, the 2023-24 season represents an opportunity for reinvention. The Warriors’ coach views the current phase as a chance to redefine the team's identity through competition and comprehensive evaluation.
"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 said.
The path to establishing a consistent lineup isn't without its challenges. The Warriors utilized 27 different starting lineups last season, a testament to the fluidity and adjustment necessitated by various factors throughout the campaign. However, Kerr looks to turn uncertainties into strengths.
"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 asserted.
As the new season approaches, the Golden State Warriors are poised to navigate these competitive dynamics with the goal of emerging stronger and more cohesive. All eyes will be on how Kerr’s decisions materialize and how the players adapt to their defined roles, ensuring the team continues to thrive in the fast-paced, three-point-centric style that has become their hallmark.