As the Golden State Warriors gear up for the 2023-24 season, head coach Steve Kerr faces the critical task of solidifying a consistent starting lineup. The absence of Klay Thompson, who held the shooting guard position, casts a notable uncertainty over the configuration of the team, especially in the backcourt.
The competition in the Warriors' roster is fierce, particularly for the coveted starting positions. Kerr's strategic evaluation throughout the training camp has emphasized the importance of finding the right combination of players who can complement both the starting five and 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. We've got a lot of work to do to figure out lineups. All the guys can do is compete, play their ass off," said Kerr.
Center Position Battle
Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are two key names in contention for the center position. While both players bring unique skill sets, the decision will hinge on who can best integrate into Kerr's system and maintain the defensive solidity the Warriors are known for. Draymond Green appears to be a lock for his starting position, providing the team with his hallmark tenacity and versatility. Additionally, Kyle Anderson has emerged as a viable option for small-ball center duties, adding another layer to Kerr's strategic conundrum.
Forward and Guard Challenges
The frontcourt competition also sees Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins vying for a significant role. Their performances in the training camp will be scrutinized closely as Kerr looks to finalize his optimal lineup. Meanwhile, the shooting guard position boasts a spirited contest between Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield. Each player offers different attributes—Podziemski with his playmaking skills, Melton with his defensive prowess, and Hield with his shooting accuracy.
Stephen Curry remains the undeniable anchor of the team, assured of his starting spot. His leadership on the floor will be crucial as the Warriors navigate a season filled with new possibilities. Kerr encapsulated the broader challenge, "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?"
High Volume Shooting Strategy
The Warriors are set to continue their affinity for 3-point shooting, having secured the fourth spot in the league for 3-point attempts last season. Klay Thompson's previous role saw him taking eight to ten 3-point shots per game. Kerr aims to maintain this high volume shooting approach, expressing a clear vision for his players. "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 stated.
Stephen Curry echoed this sentiment, highlighting the variety of talents within the roster. "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 remarked.
A New Beginning
Kerr's words resonate with a sense of optimism and renewal 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," he noted. This season not only allows for strategic adjustments but also represents an opportunity for the Warriors to redefine their identity.
Despite the inherent challenges in not having a set lineup, Kerr is determined to leverage the competitive nature of the training camp. "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 encouraged.
The Warriors' journey this season will be closely watched as Kerr's decisions and the players' performances during the training camp will shape the team's dynamics. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising new talents, the Warriors are set to embark on a season that holds immense potential for transformation and success.