Warriors: Evaluating starting lineup options for Western Conference Finals
Other optimal starting lineups for the Warriors
But, if not Looney, what other possibilities do the Warriors have? Starting Jonathan Kuminga for three games against the Grizzlies had merit, and it does here as well.
The idea is good – a player who can compete on the perimeter with his size and athleticism, with a simplified offensive role based on fast break and cutting finishes and the rare open three-point attempt.
Unfortunately, Kuminga didn’t succeed in that simplified role against the Grizzlies, often putting the ball on the floor, driving into the paint and then being asked to become a decision maker and passer. He may be ready for such a role in 12 months’ time, but as a rookie, his time will be limited.
Otto Porter Jr. continues to be an option theoretically, but the Warriors would be unlikely to start him even if his availability wasn’t a concern.
If the Warriors want to prioritize offense, then yes Jordan Poole is an option. But in the Suns series, we saw Doncic take advantage of size mismatches constantly. Having Poole next to Stephen Curry would leave another target for Doncic to exploit.
This is where the absence of Gary Payton II may seriously hurt the Warriors.
If he were available, then there’s little doubt that the Warriors would use him much like they did to begin the Grizzlies series. That would allow the Warriors to be comfortable with not only utilizing a switching defense but also have another primary defender option for Doncic.
On offense, Payton’s no deadeye shooter, but unlike Looney, he will take the open shot. Steve Kerr hasn’t ruled out Payton from playing in the series, so be on the lookout for his potential role should he return at some point.
Gary Payton II won't play to open the conference finals, but has been able to keep conditioning up since it's elbow injury.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) May 15, 2022
Steve Kerr: "We're not ruling him out of the whole conference finals. We're not saying he's going to play either." Called it a "longshot" but "possibility."
Looney will likely continue to start, but that’s more so a product of the Warriors’ lack of options.
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With the Mavericks’ perimeter shooting, and Doncic’s ability to target and then capitalize on mismatches, don’t expect Looney to play the kind of minutes we saw in game six against the Grizzlies.