As the Golden State Warriors embark on the 2023-24 NBA season, the team finds itself in an intriguing state of flux. Head coach Steve Kerr is confronted with the challenge of establishing a consistent starting lineup, a crucial task for any team with championship aspirations. Last season, the Warriors employed no fewer than 27 different starting lineups, a testament to their ongoing search for the perfect combination of players. This year, the stakes are higher, and the margin for error is slimmer.
Uncertainty in the Backcourt
One of the most significant areas of uncertainty centers around the shooting guard position. Klay Thompson, who has been a cornerstone of the Warriors' success over the past decade, previously held this role. Thompson's ability to consistently take eight to ten 3-point shots per game made him a pivotal part of the team's offensive strategy. Now, with his future in flux, a trio of players—Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield—are vying for the spot.
Kerr acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, "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?"
Stable Veteran Presence
Amidst the uncertainty, one thing remains constant: Stephen Curry's role as the starting point guard. Curry, the engine of the Warriors' offense, is assured of his place as the floor general. "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 said.
Frontcourt Battles and Strategic Options
In the frontcourt, competition is equally fierce. Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are battling for the center position, with Draymond Green likely to retain his spot at power forward. Additionally, Kyle Anderson is being considered for small-ball center duties, adding another layer of versatility to Kerr’s strategic options. The situation is further complicated by Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins, who are both eyeing a crucial frontcourt spot.
Kerr emphasized the importance of finding the right harmony between the starters and the bench players. "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."
New Beginnings and High Volume Shooting
The Warriors' ability to shoot from beyond the arc remained formidable last season; they secured the fourth spot in the league for 3-point attempts. This shooting prowess is something Kerr aims to maintain and even enhance this 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 said. The emphasis on high-volume shooting will be integral to the Warriors' game plan, especially in an era where spacing and perimeter scoring have become essential.
The team’s journey this season feels like a rebirth, marked by a series of pivotal changes and new faces. "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 expressed, highlighting the transformative nature of the current phase.
Embracing the Competition
Despite the uncertainties, Kerr is encour aging a spirit of competition within the squad. "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." This approach could foster a more resilient and dynamic team capable of adapting to the rigors of a demanding NBA season.
As the Warriors navigate through training camp and the pre-season, the puzzle pieces of their lineup will start to fall into place. Kerr's strategic evaluation aims to ensure that the right combination of players coalesce to not only form a formidable starting unit but also strengthen the bench. With a mix of veterans and young talents, the Warriors are poised to carve out a new identity, one defined by competition, high-volume shooting, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.