The Golden State Warriors, under the stewardship of head coach Steve Kerr, are embarking on the 2023-24 NBA season with a significant challenge: establishing a consistent starting lineup. The uncertainty looms large, particularly around the shooting guard spot, previously held by the prolific Klay Thompson. Steve Kerr's strategic evaluations during training camp are aimed at ensuring the right mix of players for both the starting lineup and the crucial bench unit.
The issues extend beyond just the shooting guard position. Key positions across the board are still up for grabs. Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are in a fierce battle for the center position, while Draymond Green is likely to retain his role in the lineup. The versatility of Kyle Anderson provides an intriguing option for small-ball center duties, a dynamic that Kerr might explore as the season unfolds.
Frontcourt Competition
The competition is equally intense in the frontcourt, where Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins vie for a starting spot. Kerr emphasized the need for cohesion across the five starting positions and the bench, saying, "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."
Shooting Guard Conundrum
The most open and competitive slot appears to be the shooting guard position. Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield are all in the running to fill Klay Thompson's former role. Thompson was known for his prolific three-point shooting, averaging between eight to ten attempts per game. Kerr's desire for high-volume shooting remains unchanged, particularly given that the Warriors ranked fourth in the league for three-point attempts last season. "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.
Established Roles
Amidst the uncertainties, one position remains unquestionably secure: Stephen Curry is a lock for the starting lineup. However, even with Curry's position assured, Kerr faces the intricate task of building the best combinations around him. "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.
Warriors' New Beginning
Adding to the complexities of determining the starting five, the Warriors are looking to reinvent themselves. "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, highlighting the fresh perspective that the team is embracing this season.
Player Dynamics
The competition not only serves to bolster the starting lineup but also gives the bench a revitalized look. With players like Buddy Hield providing veteran experience and spacing, and Brandin Podziemski bringing a unique playmaking ability, the Warriors have multiple dynamic options. As Curry put it, "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."
Kerr recognizes the challenges but is optimistic about turning them into strengths. Reflecting on the lineup fluidity of the previous season, where the Warriors used 27 different starting setups, he admitted the ease that comes with a stable rotation but also saw the potential in the 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 stated.
As the Warriors move forward, the onus is on Kerr and his coaching staff to strike the right balance. With seasoned players and promising talents pushing for spots, the 2023-24 season holds the promise of a renewed identity for the team.