The dawn of the 2023-24 NBA season has arrived, and for the Golden State Warriors, it marks the beginning of a crucial journey under the astute leadership of head coach Steve Kerr. As the team prepares to make its mark, one of the primary challenges Kerr faces is establishing a consistent and effective starting lineup. This season brings a sense of reinvention and fresh beginnings for the Warriors, as indicated by Kerr himself.
"This feels like a new beginning for us, whereas last year felt like an extension of who we already were," Kerr expressed, highlighting the transformational phase the team is undergoing. "It gives us a chance to reinvent ourselves a little bit."
Lineup Decisions
The Warriors, noted for their adaptability and depth, used 27 different starting lineups in the previous season. With the current roster, Kerr's strategic evaluation during training camp is pivotal in forming the right combinations both for the starters and the bench. The uncertainty revolves around several key positions, most notably the shooting guard spot that Klay Thompson once held. Stephen Curry, however, remains the only assured starter, solidifying his role as the team's primary point guard.
"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, underlining the competitive atmosphere within the squad.
Frontcourt and Center Competition
In the frontcourt, Draymond Green is expected to retain his position, bringing his defensive prowess and experience to the table. The competition is heating up for the remaining spots, with Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins vying for a key frontcourt role. At the center position, Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are battling it out, while Kyle Anderson adds versatility as an option for small-ball center duties.
Shooting Guard Spot and 3-Point Strategy
The shooting guard position is particularly contentious this season. Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield are all in the fray to secure this spot, which was previously filled by Klay Thompson, known for his prolific 3-point shooting.
"There is competition across the board," Kerr noted. "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?" The emphasis on finding the right mix suggests that Kerr is looking at both offensive and defensive synergies across positions, not just individual talents.
The Warriors' strategy will continue to prioritize 3-point shooting, a key component of their offensive arsenal. Last season, the team was fourth in the league for 3-point attempts, and Kerr is aiming to maintain, if not enhance, this aspect of their game.
"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 emphasized, making it clear that the perimeter game will be a focal point once again.
Stephen Curry echoed a similar sentiment about the team's shooting options. "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, expressing confidence in the team's shooting depth.
Establishing Team Identity
One of the overarching themes for Kerr and the Warriors is establishing a new team identity. The coach acknowledges the difficulty in not having a set starting five and the first four off the bench but views it as an opportunity to foster competition and build a cohesive unit.
"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 stated, underscoring the spirit of determination that he hopes will drive the Warriors this season.
As the Warriors embark on this new season, the blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent, guided by Kerr's strategic insight, sets the stage for an exciting journey. The foundation of their success will be built on finding the right mix of players who can collectively elevate the team's performance and redefine its identity in the ever-competitive landscape of the NBA.