As the Golden State Warriors embark on the 2023-24 NBA season, one of the primary challenges facing head coach Steve Kerr is establishing a consistent and effective starting lineup. Given the significant changes in player dynamics and the need to integrate new talents, Kerr's task is far from straightforward.
This season's uncertainty prominently features the shooting guard spot, a position historically held by Klay Thompson. His prolific three-point shooting and defensive acumen have been central to the Warriors' strategy, making the selection of his successor crucial. Kerr has noted that forming a cohesive lineup isn't just about the starters but about finding the right combination for both the starting unit and the bench. "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," Kerr mentioned.
Competition and Strategy
This competitive dynamic is evident across various positions. At the center spot, Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are vying for supremacy. While Draymond Green is likely to retain his position, the team is also exploring the versatility offered by Kyle Anderson, who is a candidate for small-ball center duties. The frontcourt competition is fierce with Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins battling for a spot. As Kerr highlighted, "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?"
Shooting Guard Position
The shooting guard position is one of the most contested, with Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield all in the mix. The decision here will significantly impact the Warriors' perimeter shooting, an area where the team excelled last season by securing the fourth spot in the league for three-point attempts. Thompson, who previously contributed eight to ten three-point shots per game, will be a tough act to follow. Kerr is clear about his expectations: "I want Wigs shooting six, seven threes. I want Brandin, I want Moses, I want De'Anthony -- I want to be a high-volume shooting team."
Stephen Curry's Perspective
Stephen Curry, the linchpin of the Warriors and assured of his starting position, also weighs in on the evolving lineup 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 said. His confidence in the team's depth and talent reflects the potential for various lineups to contribute effectively.
A New Beginning
Kerr sees this period not just as a challenge but 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," he stated. With the team using 27 different starting lineups last season, establishing a solid rotation is imperative but also seen as a chance to foster competition. "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 added.
The Warriors' journey this season is underscored by a blend of uncertainty and opportunity. Kerr's strategic evaluations during training camp are critical in ensuring the right mix of players to enhance both the starting unit and the bench. With Stephen Curry already a cornerstone and various talents competing for key positions, the Warriors are poised to sculpt a lineup that not only meets their high standards but paves the way for a potentially transformative season.