As the Golden State Warriors prepare for the 2023-24 season, head coach Steve Kerr faces the complex challenge of establishing a consistent starting lineup. After utilizing 27 different starting lineups last season, the objective is clear: find a cohesive unit that can perform both on offense and defense from tip-off through the final buzzer.
Challenges in the Backcourt
The key area of uncertainty revolves around the shooting guard position, which was previously manned by Klay Thompson. Kerr’s strategy during training camp involves a thorough evaluation to find the best fit for the role. The competition is fierce, with Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield all in contention for the spot. Stephen Curry remains unchallenged as the starting point guard, which adds stability but also increases the significance of finding the right backcourt partner.
Steve Kerr emphasized the complexity of this decision. "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 stated. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the team has not just a strong starting lineup but also a bench that can carry the load when needed.
Frontcourt Battles and Small-Ball Potential
Beyond the shooting guard spot, the battle for the center position between Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis is another storyline to watch. Draymond Green's position seems secure, but who will join him in the frontcourt? Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins are competing for that spot, while Kyle Anderson provides an option for small-ball center duties—potentially offering Kerr a versatile lineup against varied opponents.
"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, underscoring the importance of synergy across the starting and bench units.
Three-Point Strategy
The Warriors’ shooting strategy is also under scrutiny. Last season, the Warriors secured the fourth spot in the league for three-point attempts, with Klay Thompson alone taking eight to ten shots per game from beyond the arc. With Thompson's role in flux, Kerr sees the need for others to step up. "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 articulated. This high-volume approach aims to maintain the Warriors’ offensive threat from the perimeter.
Stephen Curry echoed this sentiment by stressing the importance of having versatile shooting guards. "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 explained.
A Fresh Beginning
This season feels different for the Warriors. Unlike the previous year, which Kerr described as an "extension of who we already were," this season offers a chance for reinvention. "This feels like a new beginning for us," Kerr said, indicating a shift in the team’s psychology. This reset could prove crucial for a team looking to reestablish itself as a dominant force in the league.
While having a settled starting five is undoubtedly easier for managerial and coaching strategies, Kerr is approaching the uncertainty with a positive mindset. "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 navigate the complexities of roster selection and competition, one thing is clear: this is a team with multiple talented options and an experienced coaching staff committed to unlocking the best possible combinations. The journey through training camp and into the regular season will reveal how these pieces come together, shaping the next chapter for the Golden State Warriors.