As the Golden State Warriors set sights on the 2023-24 NBA season, head coach Steve Kerr stands before an intriguing challenge: establishing a consistent starting lineup. With various positions still in fluctuation, Kerr is keen on leveraging the training camp to strike the perfect balance between the starting and bench units.
One of the most scrutinized spots is the shooting guard position, previously held by the prolific Klay Thompson. The candidates vying for this critical role include Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield. Each brings a unique set of skills, adding to Kerr’s strategic conundrum. "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 remarked, emphasizing the comprehensive approach needed for lineup determination.
At the center position, Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are locked in a competitive joust. Meanwhile, the versatile Kyle Anderson is under consideration for small-ball center duties—a role that requires agility and tactical awareness. Given Draymond Green's past performances and tactical importance, he is expected to retain his position, continuing to bring his defensive prowess and leadership to the squad.
In the frontcourt, the competition between Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins is particularly intense. Wiggins, who has demonstrated an ability to stretch the floor, is encouraged by Kerr to be more assertive from beyond the arc. "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, hinting at a strategy leaning heavily on perimeter shooting. The Warriors finished fourth in the league for three-point attempts last season, and sustaining this offensive style is evidently a priority.
Meanwhile, Stephen Curry remains the only indisputable starter. The undeniable backbone of the team, Curry’s role as leader and primary scoring option is unchallenged. "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 acknowledged, reflecting on the depth and versatility within the team’s roster.
Kerr's game plan this year appears focused on flexibility and adaptability. "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 underscored the comprehensive evaluation process essential to forming a cohesive unit. This analytical approach aims at optimizing both offensive and defensive efficiencies, a necessity given the multiple lineup combinations used last season—a staggering 27 different starting configurations.
This season carries with it the aura of 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," Kerr explained, alluding to the fresh dynamics that new and developing players bring to the roster. The challenge of not having a preset lineup can be daunting, but Kerr views it as an opportunity rather than a hurdle. "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 added.
For Kerr and the Warriors, the 2023-24 season is poised to be one defined by strategic experimentation and robust competition. The quest for the optimal lineup starts now, each player’s effort carving the path to another potential championship run. As fans and analysts keep a close watch, the anticipation builds—because every move and every shot taken in training camp could define the Warriors' fortunes in the months to come.