As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, head coach Steve Kerr faces the complex challenge of solidifying a consistent starting lineup. With several positions up for grabs and the need to build cohesion among the players, Kerr's strategic decisions during training camp will be critical.
Shooting Guard Conundrum
Arguably, the most significant uncertainty for the Warriors lies in the shooting guard position that Klay Thompson previously held. The departure of Thompson has opened the floor to intense competition among Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield. Each brings his unique skill set, and Kerr emphasizes that the starting lineup decision won't hinge solely on individual abilities.
"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 explained. Kerr's approach signals a thorough evaluation process to ensure both the starting unit and the bench are well-balanced.
Center of Attention
Another critical decision point for Kerr is the center position, with Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis both vying for the spot. Additionally, Kyle Anderson remains an option for small-ball center duties, providing Kerr with a versatile toolkit to adjust game strategies dynamically. Looney's experience and Jackson-Davis's potential create a competitive environment that Kerr seems to welcome.
"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 said, highlighting the complexity of the decision-making process.
Frontcourt Battles
The frontcourt competition is equally fierce, with Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins locked in a battle for a starting spot. Draymond Green, a stalwart in the Warriors' lineup, is expected to retain his position, adding some stability amid the uncertainty. Kerr's emphasis on shooting also threads through his evaluation process.
"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 stated, indicating a clear vision for maintaining their league standing in 3-point attempts.
The Curry Factor
Among the turmoil and uncertainty, one element remains constant: Stephen Curry. Assured of his starting position, Curry's leadership both on and off the court will be pivotal in guiding a team that used 27 different starting lineups last season. His chemistry with other players, particularly new additions vying for the shooting guard spot, will influence the overall team dynamic.
"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 noted, underscoring the depth of talent at Kerr's disposal.
A New Beginning
The Warriors' ambition isn't just about filling positions but also reinventing themselves after a season that felt more like an extension of their past. Kerr perceives this transitional phase as an opportunity for the team to establish a fresh identity.
"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 reflected, offering a glimpse into the transformative potential of this season's lineup decisions.
The process, while challenging, has its merits. "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 suggested, emphasizing the constructive role of competition in shaping the team's identity.
As the Warriors navigate these decisions, the goal remains clear: to find the right combination of players that can carry them through a rigorous NBA season. With competition at every level and a new beginning on the horizon, Kerr and his squad face a season of possibilities and challenges alike.