Warriors Set for Revamped Season Focused on Steph Curry's Health and Rookie Integration
Golden State looks to evolve its offensive strategy and manage Stephen Curry's workload in the upcoming NBA season.
The Golden State Warriors are gearing up for a new season with a strategic shift, aiming to manage star Stephen Curry's health while integrating rookie Yaxel Lendeborg into a revamped offensive system.
After a tumultuous offseason that saw questions about coach Steve Kerr's future and the team's core players, the Warriors have largely run it back. Kerr signed a two-year extension, Curry inked an extension, and Draymond Green re-upped his contract. Despite significant interest in major offseason acquisitions, the team's most notable additions are rookie forward Yaxel Lendeborg, selected 11th overall, and assistant coach Frank Vogel, tasked with bolstering the defense.
The Warriors acknowledge that the era of relying on sheer talent to overcome turnovers and offensive inefficiency is over. Coach Kerr emphasized the need for evolution, stating the team can no longer afford the "controlled chaos" that defined their past successes. The offense will transition to a more structured approach with set plays and patterns, moving away from the free-flowing style that led to a bottom-half league ranking in offensive efficiency and frequent turnovers last season.
Key Questions for the Warriors
Health and Roster Stability
A primary concern is the team's ability to remain competitive until key players Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody return from knee injuries, expected around February. The team's performance during this period will be crucial in determining their flexibility at the trade deadline. Coach Kerr is focused on building momentum and ensuring the team is in a position to capitalize on potential midseason upgrades.
Rookie Impact
Yaxel Lendeborg is expected to make an immediate impact, potentially starting at power forward on opening night. The 6-foot-9, 241-pound rookie has shown promise in preseason, with his scoring average increasing significantly after a slow debut. The team is encouraging an aggressive offensive approach from Lendeborg, who has demonstrated receptiveness to the message.
Podziemski's Development
Brandin Podziemski's recent five-year, $110 million contract extension signals the team's belief in his potential to become a bridge to the post-Curry era. With the absences of Butler and Moody, and an aging roster, Podziemski will be expected to elevate his game significantly.
Ball Security
Kerr has made it clear that taking care of the basketball is a priority. The team averaged over 20 turnovers per game in preseason, a trend that must be reversed. Even Curry and Green, who were previously given more leeway, will be held to a higher standard.
Utilizing Flexibility
General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. highlighted the team's maintained flexibility and asset pool following a quiet offseason. This includes approximately $10 million in additional cap space and over $100 million in expiring contracts, potentially setting the stage for a significant midseason trade, possibly involving Kristaps Porzingis's contract.
Player Focus
Brandon Williams
Newly acquired point guard Brandon Williams brings a new level of speed to the team, described by Kerr as the most explosive player since Leandro Barbosa. He is expected to serve as the primary backup point guard and ball-handler when Curry is off the court, a role that will likely increase due to Curry's knee management. Williams's ability to improve his assist-to-turnover ratio will be key to his long-term success.
Stephen Curry's Health Management
The overhaul of Curry's training regimen is paramount for the 38-year-old guard's 18th season. After dealing with a chronic knee issue last season, which he described as a "new normal," Curry has incorporated an underwater treadmill and will work with Dr. Rick Celebrini on an in-season recovery program. His ability to stay healthy through April will be critical for the team's playoff aspirations.
Draymond Green's Role
Draymond Green's starting position may be in jeopardy as the team transitions to a more structured offense. If Al Horford remains healthy and Lendeborg proves ready, Green could see his role adjusted.
Kristaps Porzingis's Situation
Kristaps Porzingis's unexplained absence from training camp due to illness raises concerns about his durability. While re-signed to a $20 million extension, his health issues could impact his availability or lead to his contract being used as a trade asset to facilitate a midseason acquisition.