Steve Kerr makes bold claim on Golden State Warriors' roster
Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr made a bold statement about his team's roster following their dominant 139-104 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday to tip off the new season. The Warriors' offensive firepower was on full display as Steph Curry and his teammates recorded a commanding road win.
In the post-game press conference, a delighted Kerr expressed his excitement about the season’s start and emphasized that the current roster is one of the deepest he's ever had during his time with the Warriors.
"This is as deep a team as I’ve ever coached. And we got to lean into that, so we’re gonna play a lot of people," Kerr said.
Steve Kerr has had the privilege of coaching some of the greatest players and rosters in NBA history. When the Warriors captured championships in 2017 and 2018, their lineup, led by Kevin Durant, Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, was regarded as one of the all-time best.
Steve Kerr ready to go deep with his roster
Steve Kerr utilized 14 players on his roster in the blowout win against the Trail Blazers. Looking ahead, he plans to regularly rotate at least 12 players in games, rewarding those who impressed during preseason and training camp.
"We’re going to do it," Kerr said when asked about playing more than 10 players in a game. "I’ve never played 12 before, but we’re going to do it. It’s not easy.
"It’s not easy on anybody, but we just have to trust that from one night to the next, we’re going to find guys and combinations that really work. And the guys have to understand that some night it’s their night, and some nights, it’s not."
"Two days ago, I was thinking maybe I’ll play 10 and just have to tell two of these guys they’re going to sit. I couldn’t justify that because they’ve all played really well in camp," he added.
The Warriors have been impressive across their seven outings so far, including a flawless 6-0 record in preseason. Steph Curry and his team remain undefeated, displaying strong form leading into the regular season.
Offseason additions, particularly Buddy Hield, alongside rising talents like Moses Moody, have stepped up and shown that they're ready to support Curry and share the load. With Kerr's willingness to tap into the depth of his roster, players are set to receive more opportunities, and they will be eager to make the most of each chance.