Warriors’ Coach Steve Kerr Adjusts Lineup Amid Player Injuries
On October 29, 2024, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr faced a significant challenge as he prepared for Tuesday night’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans. With star players Stephen Curry and Andrew Wiggins sidelined due to injuries, Kerr was compelled to reevaluate his starting five. The resulting shifts in the lineup made headlines, particularly the decision to move Jonathan Kuminga to the bench and insert Moses Moody as a starter.
Kerr explained that his goal was not merely to replace Curry and Wiggins, but to create better spacing on the court. "Without Steph and Wiggs, I didn’t want to start Trayce [Jackson-Davis], Draymond [Green], and JK. I wanted a little more spacing," Kerr stated after the Warriors secured a 124-106 victory. He anticipated that Kuminga would still play a substantial role in the game, acknowledging his athleticism and size as key assets for the team’s performance.
Kuminga reported receiving a text from Kerr regarding the lineup change and demonstrated professionalism in his response. "It wasn’t my decision. I got a text, this is how it’s going to go… at the end of the day, I’m still a professional," he said. Despite the adjustment, Kuminga did not perceive a significant shift in his role on the court, claiming he played as a small forward, rather than a power forward.
In the game, Kuminga delivered a solid performance, scoring 17 points on 6-of-13 shooting, accompanied by 3 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block in 28 minutes of play—his highest for the season thus far. "I thought JK was great," Kerr praised after the win. "We’re going to need him, obviously." Kerr’s confidence in Kuminga highlights the team’s reliance on his versatility, especially during this challenging stretch without key players.
The decision to bench Kuminga raises intriguing questions, especially considering he is in his fourth season and hasn’t yet finalized a contract extension with the team. However, team officials have hinted at plans to position him for further development. The uncertainty surrounding his role continues as the Warriors navigate injuries to not only Curry and Wiggins but also rotational player De’Anthony Melton.
In a strategic pivot, Kerr opted to start Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, Moody, Green, and Jackson-Davis, utilizing a 10-man rotation. The Warriors aim to refine their group within the first 30 games, creating opportunities for players to distinguish themselves. Kerr emphasized, "This is about winning. The thing I’ve asked all of these guys to do is just commit. And every game is going to be different."
As the Warriors adjust to these early-season challenges, their depth and flexibility will be crucial in maintaining competitive momentum. The upcoming games will determine if these strategic changes yield consistent success and allow players like Kuminga to continue showcasing their talent and adaptability on the court. The focus remains on cohesion and performance as the Warriors aim to turn the tide amidst adversity.
