Steve Kerr's Strategic Challenge: Building the Golden State Warriors' 2023-24 Starting Lineup
As the Golden State Warriors step into the 2023-24 NBA season, Coach Steve Kerr faces the intricate task of configuring a consistent and effective starting lineup. The challenge is multifaceted, especially given the uncertainties surrounding several key positions, most notably the shooting guard spot vacated by veteran Klay Thompson.
Positioning the Right Players
Kerr's focus during training camp is clear: strategically evaluate the players to ensure the optimal combination for both the starting unit and the bench. In his words, "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." This statement underscores the importance of synergy between starters and the bench, emphasizing the need for balance and depth.
The competition for roles within the team is intense. Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis are battling for the center position, while Draymond Green is likely to secure his forward spot. Additionally, Kyle Anderson presents an option for small-ball center duties, showcasing the adaptive strategies Kerr might employ depending on matchups.
Frontcourt Battles and Shooting Guard Candidates
In the Warriors' frontcourt, Jonathan Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins are contenders for a significant role. This competition could influence not only defensive assignments but also offensive dynamics, considering Wiggins' shooting capability and Kuminga's athleticism. Kerr noted, "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?" With Stephen Curry's starting position guaranteed, figuring out these combinations is critical.
The contest for the shooting guard role sees Brandin Podziemski, De'Anthony Melton, and Buddy Hield vying for the spot. Each player brings unique strengths: Podziemski's agility, Melton's defense, and Hield's veteran shooting prowess. This strategic puzzle could significantly affect the Warriors' perimeter game, particularly given that the team ranked fourth in 3-point attempts last season. Klay Thompson's departure, with his eight to ten 3-point shots per game, leaves a void that these competitors aim to fill.
Reinventing the Team Identity
Kerr recognizes the transformative potential of this season, saying, "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." This perspective hints at a rejuvenation within the squad, an opportunity to reimagine their playing style and on-court strategies.
The Importance of High-Volume Shooting
Shooting remains a cornerstone of the Warriors' strategy. Kerr expressed his ambition for the team to be prolific 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." This emphasis on high-volume shooting points to a potential uptick in 3-point attempts and a shift towards a more aggressive perimeter offense. Notably, Stephen Curry highlighted the diverse skill sets within the roster, stating, "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."
Establishing an Identity Through Competition
The extensive use of 27 different starting lineups last season highlighted the fluidity and experimentation within Kerr's approach. Yet, as he puts it, "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." This philosophy of leveraging internal competition to forge a distinct team identity speaks volumes about Kerr's adaptive and growth-oriented mindset.
As the Warriors advance through training camp, the decisions made by Kerr and his coaching staff will be pivotal. Establishing the right combination of players will not only define the starting lineup but also set the tone for a season filled with renewed possibility and strategic reinvention. The competition is fierce, but with an all-encompassing approach and clear objectives, the Warriors aim to return to their championship-winning ways.