As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, head coach Steve Kerr is confronted with the challenging task of establishing a consistent starting lineup. The team's roster sees a blend of familiar faces and new talent, creating an atmosphere ripe for competition.
Key Positions in Flux
Among the critical aspects Kerr must decide is who will fill the shooting guard spot previously held by Klay Thompson. Thompson was known for his prolific three-point shooting, frequently taking eight to ten attempts per game. Kerr has said, "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."
Alongside the shooting guard position, the center spot is also up for grabs. Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are both competing fervently to secure their place in the lineup. Veteran Draymond Green is likely to retain his position, while Kyle Anderson is being considered for small-ball center duties.
Frontcourt and Backcourt Dynamics
The frontcourt sees its own set of competitive matchups. Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins are in a fierce contest to lock down a spot, adding another layer of complexity to the lineup decisions. In the backcourt, names like Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield are all contending for the crucial shooting guard role. Kerr's approach to integrating these players will be pivotal for the team's performance throughout the season.
Kerr has emphasized the importance of three-point shooting in the Warriors' strategy. "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," he stated, highlighting his vision for a team that capitalizes on long-range shots.
Strategic Shifts and Adaptations
Stephen Curry remains the cornerstone of the Warriors, assured of his starting position. Curry himself spoke on the flexibility and depth of the team, saying, "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."
Last season, the Warriors experimented with 27 different starting lineups, a testament to their adaptability but also a sign of the instability that Kerr hopes to resolve. This season aims to strike a balance between the first unit and a solid bench presence, ensuring the right combination of players are on the court at the right times.
Maintaining High Standards
The Warriors' proficiency in three-point shooting is an entrenched part of their identity. Last season, they secured the fourth spot in the league for three-point attempts. Kerr is determined to maintain, if not exceed, these standards, even as he navigates the complexities of the current roster.
"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, reflecting an optimistic outlook for the season. The coach acknowledges the challenge of not having a set starting five but views it as an opportunity for the team to establish its identity through 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," he added.
As the Warriors move forward, the emphasis will be on integrating old and new players seamlessly, and achieving the right chemistry on the court. Kerr's strategic evaluations during training camp are set to play a crucial role in shaping the trajectory of the upcoming season. The competition is fierce, the stakes are high, and the Warriors are ready to embark on what promises to be an exciting and transformative season.