Figuring out the Golden State Warriors’ rotation as the season approaches is quite a challenge.
While there’s significant attention on Steve Kerr’s starting lineup, there are numerous uncertainties throughout the roster that could lead to various outcomes.
With Klay Thompson’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks in the offseason, Buddy Hield has emerged as a potential replacement, given his reputation as one of the top three-point shooters in the league.
Hield is a strong candidate to fill Thompson’s spot in the starting five, but that decision will hinge on whether Kerr prioritizes shooting, opts for the defensive skills of De’Anthony Melton, or favors the versatility and potential of second-year guard Brandin Podziemski.
Even if Hield doesn’t start, he may still have a larger role than many anticipate. According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, some within the organization believe Hield could log around 25 minutes per game.
“Considering how the Warriors plan to adapt after Thompson’s exit, that specific skill set has some team members projecting Hield to receive about 25 minutes each night,” Slater noted.
Given defensive concerns and his average of just 12.8 minutes during Philadelphia’s first-round playoff exit against the New York Knicks last season, 25 minutes would be a notable increase for Hield.
Additionally, Kerr has several options for similar positions, including Podziemski, Melton, Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody, Gary Payton II, and Lindy Waters III. While these players may not match Hield’s shooting ability, they offer different strengths and can all play the two or three spots.
These discussions highlight the intrigue surrounding the Warriors this season, with all eyes on training camp in Hawaii and the upcoming six preseason games, beginning against the L.A. Clippers on Saturday. If Hield averages 25 minutes per game, it shouldn’t be surprising, but it’s equally possible that he could find himself completely out of Kerr’s rotation at times.
