“Strength in numbers” has always been a mantra for the Golden State Warriors, and this season they are taking it to a whole new level. In their season-opening win against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Warriors utilized a 12-man rotation. Eleven different players hit the court in the first 11 minutes of the game, with the 12th player joining in at the start of the second quarter. Head coach Steve Kerr stated that this strategy will be the norm moving forward.
“We’re committed to it,” Kerr told the press after the 139-104 victory. “I’ve never gone with a 12-man rotation before, but we’re going to stick with it. It’s challenging for everyone, but we trust that by experimenting with different player combinations, we’ll find what works best from game to game.”
Golden State was not alone in using a deep bench in their season opener. Both the Houston Rockets and Memphis Grizzlies also employed 11 players in the first quarter. However, managing such a large rotation on a nightly basis can be quite demanding. The Warriors’ roster may not be filled with superstars like it was in previous years, but it boasts a lineup of experienced role players. By expanding the rotation to 12 players, the coaching staff avoids the dilemma of having to leave out deserving players if the rotation were limited to 10 or 11.
Kerr revealed that he contemplated the extended rotation until the day before the season opener. “Two days ago, I was considering sticking with 10 players and telling two guys they wouldn’t play,” he said. “But I couldn’t justify it because everyone performed well in training camp.” He expressed regret about Lindy Waters III, who had an impressive camp, not being part of the rotation.
When it came to deciding the starting lineup, Kerr opted for Draymond Green and Trayce Jackson-Davis in the frontcourt, with Andrew Wiggins and Jonathan Kuminga on the wings. While this lineup didn’t provide optimal spacing for Stephen Curry, adjustments were made throughout the game with players like Buddy Hield and Gary Payton II entering the mix at key moments.
As the game progressed, the Warriors utilized all-bench lineups to close out quarters and started the fourth quarter with reserves on the floor. Despite facing an early deficit, Golden State rallied to secure a convincing victory over the Blazers. Kerr acknowledged that the success of this strategy hinges on the players’ buy-in, and so far, they have embraced the challenge.
Looking ahead, the Warriors will need to maintain their health to sustain this deep rotation over the course of the season. Kerr will have to carefully manage player minutes and combinations, balancing spacing, size, athleticism, and defense. While the expanded rotation provides more options, it also presents new challenges for the coaching staff.
Ultimately, Kerr’s ability to adapt to game situations and make on-the-fly substitutions will be crucial. With a plethora of talented players at his disposal, the Warriors have the depth to face any challenge that comes their way, but it will require constant adjustments and a team-first mentality to make it work.
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The company is planning to introduce a new automated system in order to improve operational efficiency.