As the Golden State Warriors embark on the 2023-24 NBA season, the quest for a consistent and effective starting lineup looms large for head coach Steve Kerr. In a roster bustling with talent, Kerr's primary challenge is to identify the optimal combination of players that would not only excel on their own but also synergize seamlessly with the team.
Last season saw the Warriors experimenting with 27 different starting lineups, a testament to the ongoing search for the right mix. This year, the uncertainty surrounding several key positions persists, with the shooting guard spot—once reliably manned by Klay Thompson—being one of the main areas of focus.
Position Battles: Who Will Make the Cut?
The competition for starting roles is fierce across the board. At the center position, Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are vying for dominance, while Draymond Green appears to have his spot secured, attributing to his defensive prowess and veteran leadership. However, the versatility of players like Kyle Anderson, who is considered for small-ball center duties, adds an interesting layer to Kerr's strategic decisions.
On the frontcourt, Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins are locked in a contest for their spot, each bringing their unique strengths to the table. Wiggins, known for his perimeter shooting and defensive ability, and Kuminga, a young talent with immense potential, both have strong cases for inclusion.
The shooting guard position is particularly contentious. With Klay Thompson's past prowess in nailing eight to ten 3-pointers per game, the bar is set high. Kerr is evaluating Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield for this critical role. Each candidate offers different skills: Podziemski and Melton bring youth and energy, while Hield offers experience and consistent shooting.
The Fixed Points
Amidst the competition, Stephen Curry remains the one unquestionable component, anchoring the team at the point guard position. His influence on and off the court is invaluable, and Kerr recognizes the importance of surrounding him with the right supporting cast. "We know that Steph is the 1," Kerr asserted. "But what's the combination?"
Indeed, Kerr's comments underscore the importance of finding not just individual talent, but the right mix of players who can work together both as starters and off 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," said Kerr. "We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off."
High-Volume Shooting: A Strategic Priority
The Warriors' success last season in securing the fourth spot in the league for 3-point attempts highlights their reliance on long-range shooting—a tradition they appear keen to continue. "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 emphasized. This philosophy not only leverages the team's shooting strengths but also stretches opposing defenses, creating more scoring opportunities.
Curry echoed this sentiment, highlighting the diverse skill sets of potential 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."
Building a New Identity
As the Warriors navigate these preseason evaluations, Kerr sees this period as an opportunity for growth and 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," Kerr remarked. Such reinvention is not without its challenges, but it also opens the door for new dynamics and improvements in team play.
Reflecting on the current situation, Kerr acknowledges the inherent difficulties but remains optimistic. "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."
With a talented roster and the leadership of Kerr and Curry, the Warriors are well-positioned to contend with the uncertainties of their lineup. As training camp progresses, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a keen eye on how these competitions unfold and what they mean for the team's prospects in the new season.