Steve Kerr Names Draymond Green Starting Center for Warriors Opener

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr plans to start Draymond Green at the center position for the team’s regular-season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers on Oct. 21, turning once again to a small-ball lineup as the franchise navigates an ongoing frontcourt injury crisis. With Kristaps Porzingis sidelined and his return timeline uncertain, Kerr has tested Green at the five-spot across multiple preseason matchups, leaning into a faster, more versatile configuration.

Small-Ball Lineup Takes Shape for Opener

Kerr indicated that the projected starting five for opening night features Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Gui Santos, Yaxel Lendeborg, and Green. The combination relies heavily on floor spacing, perimeter creation, and defensive switching rather than traditional interior size. During preseason play, the trio of Santos, Lendeborg, and Green flashed strong offensive chemistry through rapid ball movement, opening cutting lanes for Podziemski and rookie forward Yaxel Lendeborg.

Steve Kerr on Draymond Green: “He’s the best defender I’ve ever seen in my life. It’s just insane what he does out there.” Steve Kerr: “For one night, we're us. We're champions again. I know that that may sound crazy to everybody out there. It’s a Play-In game. I don't care.” pic.twitter.com/uq6cTVHse4

— https://x.com/MikeAScotto/status/2044651400404037738

“It’s a configuration a little bit different than one with a traditional big man,” Kerr stated regarding the adjustment. “I like it. But hey, we’ve only used it for a few minutes so far.”

Frontcourt Depth and Roster Adjustments

The tactical pivot comes after the Warriors parted ways with frontcourt option Quinten Post during the offseason. Behind Green, Kerr retains veteran Al Horford, though the coaching staff plans to manage Horford’s workload by capping his minutes around 20 per game. Twenty-five-year-old center Charles Bassey serves as another depth option in the rotation.

Draymond green of the golden state warriors and kristaps porzingis of the washington wizards

Kristaps Porzingis Recovery Timeline

The primary catalyst for the small-ball experiment remains the health of Kristaps Porzingis. The Latvian center will miss the start of the regular season, and his absence could extend further as he continues rehabilitation. Porzingis must complete additional evaluations with the Warriors medical staff, including Director of Health and Performance Rick Celebrini, before returning to the floor.

“All of that will be determined once he is back with us,” Kerr said regarding Porzingis’ eventual return to basketball activities. “We will discuss it with him and review his situation, all of that.”