As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 season, head coach Steve Kerr is facing the intricate task of defining a consistent starting lineup. Given the team's storied history and ambitions, Kerr's challenge lies not just in selecting the best players for each position but ensuring the optimal blend that harmonizes effectively on the court.
"The starting lineup is going to have to be dependent not only on the first five fitting, but the second fitting as well," Kerr noted. "We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off."
One of the most significant uncertainties surrounds the shooting guard position, a role historically filled by Klay Thompson. With Thompson's past performances setting a high benchmark, the competition to fill his shoes is fierce. Among the contenders are Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield.
"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 continued.
Center Stage
In the battle for the center position, Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are making strong cases for themselves. While Draymond Green is expected to maintain his spot, there's also the intriguing possibility of Kyle Anderson stepping in for small-ball center duties. Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins, meanwhile, are vying for a critical frontcourt position, adding to the selection complexities Kerr must navigate.
Stephen Curry remains the team's cornerstone, with his starting position assured. Acknowledging the inherent challenges, Curry expressed optimism about the team's depth and versatility. "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.
Sharpening the Attack
Kerr's strategy extends beyond mere player placement; he's envisioning a high-volume shooting offense. "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 declared. The statistics back this up, with the Warriors having secured fourth place in the league for 3-point attempts last season. Notably, Klay Thompson consistently delivered eight to ten 3-point shots per game, underscoring the team's reliance on perimeter scoring.
A Season of Reinvention
This season represents more than just a lineup shuffle for the Warriors. “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," said Kerr. His sentiment underscores a broader vision for the team, aiming to build a new identity that leverages the talent and versatility within the roster.
The complexity of Kerr's task is further highlighted by the Warriors' use of 27 different starting lineups last season, pointing to a search for stability amid fluctuating performance levels and injury challenges. While Kerr acknowledges the simplicity of a fixed lineup, he sees the current circumstances as a catalyst for competitive drive. "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."
As training camp progresses, the Warriors' internal battles for starting positions promise to bring out the best in each player. Kerr's meticulous approach and the players' competitive spirit could very well redefine the Warriors' dynamics, setting the stage for a promising season ahead.