As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 NBA season, head coach Steve Kerr faces a significant challenge: establishing a consistent starting lineup. The uncertainty shrouds several key positions, most notably the shooting guard spot once occupied by Klay Thompson. Kerr is determined to find the right combination of players during training camp to ensure cohesion both among the starters and the bench.
Center Position and Frontcourt Battles
The competition for the center position is intense, with Kevon Looney and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis vying for the starting role. Veteran Draymond Green is likely to retain his position, providing much-needed stability and defensive prowess. Meanwhile, the versatile Kyle Anderson presents an option for small-ball center duties, offering additional lineup flexibility.
The frontcourt battle is equally fierce, with Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins competing for a spot. Both players bring unique strengths to the table, and their performances during training camp will be crucial in determining the starting frontcourt alignment.
Shooting Guard: A Critical Decision
One of the most closely watched battles is for the shooting guard position, where Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield are in contention. This spot, previously held by Klay Thompson, is vital for the Warriors' offensive strategy, particularly beyond the arc. Last season, the team was ranked fourth in the league for 3-point attempts, with Thompson accounting for eight to ten 3-point shots per game.
Kerr's strategic evaluation emphasizes not just individual performance but also how players fit together. "The starting lineup is going to have to be dependent not only on the first five fitting, but the second fitting as well," Kerr stated. "We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off."
Establishing Team Identity Through Competition
Aside from the shooting guard dilemma, Kerr also recognizes the broader competitive dynamic within the team. "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 explained.
Stephen Curry, the team's cornerstone, is assured of his starting position. His leadership and shooting will be indispensable as new combinations gel. Curry sees the roster competition positively, appreciating the diverse skill sets each player brings. "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.
A New Beginning for the Warriors
Kerr perceives this season as an opportunity for 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," he noted. The team dynamic last season was shaped by frequent lineup changes, with the Warriors using 27 different starting lineups. This year, Kerr aims to bring more consistency to the roster, despite the current uncertainties.
The head coach understands the benefits of a settled lineup but embraces the current competition as a strength. "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 emphasized.
With training camp underway, the Warriors are entering a pivotal phase where battles for starting positions and bench roles will be decided. The composition of the roster will play a crucial role in determining the team's success. As Kerr and his coaching staff continue their evaluations, one thing remains clear: the Warriors are poised to leverage their depth and versatility for a strong showing in the upcoming season.