The Golden State Warriors are facing an intriguing challenge as they head into the new season, particularly regarding their center rotation. Head coach Steve Kerr recently disclosed that the team plans to limit veteran center Al Horford to approximately 20 minutes per game. This decision significantly complicates the Warriors’ frontcourt situation, as they will need to fill the remaining 28 minutes at the center position during each game. Additionally, with Horford likely resting on occasion, especially during back-to-back games, the Warriors may be compelled to explore the trade market for an additional big man as the season progresses.
Kerr emphasized that the starting lineup could shift throughout the season, as it would be difficult to adhere to the 20-minute limit for a player who is both starting and finishing games. This uncertainty raises vital questions regarding the team’s depth at the center position and underscores the potential need for a trade.
Quinten Post and Trayce Jackson-Davis, who were expected to step up in the preseason, have struggled to seize their opportunities. Post emerged as the second-highest scorer for the Warriors during preseason, trailing only superstar Stephen Curry. However, with a shooting percentage of 41.9%, concerns about his defensive and rebounding skills remain, casting doubt on his readiness for a starting role. Meanwhile, Jackson-Davis showed flashes of promise towards the end of preseason but appears to be viewed as a third center option by Kerr at this point.
The Warriors will likely utilize Draymond Green in considerable small-ball minutes at center, but managing his workload is crucial as he enters the season at 35 and has shown inconsistent form in the preseason. Last year, Horford averaged 27.7 minutes with the Boston Celtics, leading to speculation that he might see an increase in minutes after signing a two-year, $12 million contract with the Warriors. However, limiting him to 20 minutes reinforces the notion that the team needs to pursue another center, preferably one with proven experience to enable Horford to transition to a more suitable sixth-man role.
In recent reports, the Warriors have been linked to Miami Heat star Bam Adebayo, as well as Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz, who is now a potential target following the failed negotiation of a rookie extension. While the addition of Horford is certainly a positive for the Warriors, it remains evident that the center position will continue to pose challenges for Kerr as the season unfolds. The team’s proactive approach in addressing this need could play a pivotal role in their success throughout the year.