As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 season, head coach Steve Kerr is left with the complex task of solidifying a consistent starting lineup. The uncertainty envelops various positions, with the shooting guard spot, once steadfastly held by Klay Thompson, now being a significant point of contention.
Throughout training camp, Kerr's primary objective will be strategic evaluation, ensuring the starting unit and the bench can synergize seamlessly. This year's center position sees an intriguing competition between Kevon Looney and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis. Meanwhile, Draymond Green's position seems secure, assuring the Warriors of his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities.
Kyle Anderson, renowned for his versatility, is also under consideration for small-ball center responsibilities, presenting Kerr with flexible lineup options. In the frontcourt, a noteworthy battle brews between Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins, both vying for a starting spot. With Stephen Curry's starting position assured, the other positions demand closer scrutiny.
Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield are all strong contenders for the shooting guard role. Kerr’s focus on competition extends beyond individual positions, as he emphasizes the importance of the right combinations of 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,” Kerr articulated.
Reflecting on the previous season, the Warriors employed 27 different starting lineups, a stark illustration of the challenges faced due to injuries and inconsistencies. Despite this, they secured the fourth spot in the league for 3-point attempts, showcasing their offensive aggression. Klay Thompson’s prior role saw him contributing between eight to ten 3-point shots per game, adding a significant threat from beyond the arc.
Strategic Shooting
Steve Kerr's strategy for this season includes a high-volume shooting approach, aiming to capitalize on his players' shooting abilities. "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. This intent underlines his plan to maintain and possibly amplify their 3-point offense.
Stephen Curry also highlighted the diverse skill sets the team possesses. “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 commented, emphasizing the depth and versatility of the roster.
New Beginnings
Kerr also viewed this season as an opportunity to redefine the team. “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,” he remarked. Such a mindset could prove instrumental in shaping a resilient and adaptive Warriors team.
Competition is at the heart of Kerr’s coaching philosophy this year, and he believes it will foster a strong team identity. “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 conveyed. This perspective might be crucial in navigating the uncertainties and nurturing an environment where players can thrive and excel through hard-fought battles for positions.
Overall, as the Warriors embark on this pivotal season, Kerr’s decisions during training camp and the early games will be immensely telling. The blend of experienced mainstays like Curry and Green, alongside burgeoning talents such as Kuminga, Wiggins, and Podziemski, offers a tantalizing prospect. A reinvigorated strategy, coupled with fierce competition for lineup spots, might just provide the Warriors the edge they need to reclaim their status among the NBA elite.