Warriors Coach Kerr Leans Toward New Starting Lineup Amidst Porzingis' Absence

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr is considering a revised starting lineup for the team's opening night of the regular season, with forward Kristaps Porzingis sidelined indefinitely. Kerr stated he is "leaning toward" starting Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, Yaxel Lendeborg, and Gui Santos.

Al Horford, who is over 40, was also mentioned as a potential starter, but Kerr expressed reservations about his minutes. "Al could be in there, but just given where he is minutes-wise per game, if the guy is going to play 20 [minutes], which is probably the limit or where we’d like him to average, it’s just a lot easier to bring him off the bench," Kerr told reporters. He added, "I also like the idea of having Draymond or Al on the court as often as possible to anchor our defense, so, yeah, I’m leaning that way."

Porzingis has missed the Warriors' entire preseason due to an undisclosed private health issue. He is scheduled to meet with Rick Celebrini, the Warriors’ director of sports medicine and performance, on Tuesday to determine the next steps in his recovery. It remains unclear when Porzingis will be available to return.

Guard Jimmy Butler and forward Moses Moody are also expected to be out for the initial months of the season due to injuries.

The potential inclusion of Santos in the starting lineup could present a significant opportunity for the 24-year-old forward. Last season, Santos started in 30 games for the Warriors, averaging 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.3 blocked shots per game. The Warriors selected Santos with the 55th pick in the 2022 draft and signed him to a three-year, $15 million contract extension in February.

The Warriors are set to open their regular season against the Lakers on October 21 at Crypto.com Arena.