Last season, Steve Kerr frequently deployed a lineup featuring Stephen Curry, Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. Given that this rotation had a +/- of 16.4 (offensive rating: 120.6, defensive rating: 104.2), it was one of the team’s best lineups on the floor.
This season, however, the Warriors have not had the luxury to implement it as often, having played that lineup together for only 17 minutes thus far. When asked why during a recent press conference, Steve Kerr responded:
“Well, I think we had every intention of using it to start the year, and then Moses was injured, and then JK played really well, so we wanted to reward him, and we stayed with that lineup.”
“We haven’t gotten to it as much. We tried it a little bit the other night,” Kerr continued. “There’s also the idea that we want to play bigs more and not have Draymond at the 5 too often because it’s pretty taxing.”
“It’s a lineup that we probably will get to more often. But between the injuries and just different people stepping up, playing well, and wanting to reward those guys, we haven’t gotten to that lineup as often.”
For the 2025-26 season, the Curry/Podziemski/Moody/Butler/Green lineup has posted a +/- of +4.7 (offensive rating: 100, defensive rating: 95.3). In comparison, the rotation of Curry/Podziemski/Kuminga/Butler/Green has been far more impactful (+16.9 in 65 minutes).
Although injuries affected the Warriors’ chances of implementing last season’s lineup, Steve Kerr has benefited from replacing Moody with Jonathan Kuminga this season. Despite this, Kerr has kept the young forward out of the rotation for extended periods.
While Kerr’s approach to his lineups has always been meritocratic, the outcome, particularly with Kuminga, has been negative. Although the team could benefit from some changes, the current scenario has raised some concerns.
Steve Kerr Reveals Jonathan Kuminga Will Return To The Rotation
Jonathan Kuminga has struggled to earn minutes in the rotation this season. Due to his inconsistent display, Kuminga has even dealt with the frustration of receiving a DNP during a crucial game.
In light of this, during the press conference, Steve Kerr also provided an update on the roster heading into the game against the Phoenix Suns.
“You definitely want to see how guys respond in practice. And I can tell you, JK has been great this last week as he’s been out of the rotation,” Kerr stated. “He’s working really hard, and I’m going to reward that. He needs to be back out there.”
Steve Kerr justified his situation by highlighting the depth of the Warriors’ roster, noting that up to 15 players could be deserving of significant minutes in the rotation each night. Regardless, being consistent and striking a balance in the rotation remains the priority.
While Kuminga’s return to the lineup could prove meaningful, especially considering his performance in specific lineups, it is evident that the team needs more from stars like Jimmy Butler.
Butler has been one of the Warriors’ best players this season. However, he has also been criticized for not being aggressive enough in taking over on offense. Draymond Green addressed this by stating what he needs Butler to do.
“I also need Jimmy to be more aggressive and demonstrative and go take the ball,” he mentioned. “Or come get the ball. And say exactly where he wants the ball. And he will, he does. He doesn’t shy away from that. So, we’re putting it together. It’s Game 27. Nobody’s panicking.”
Despite Stephen Curry’s 48-point masterclass, the Warriors suffered a 136-131 defeat against the Portland Trail Blazers. Considering that Butler only posted 16 points, seven rebounds, and four assists for the game, it is clear that he wasn’t as impactful as necessary.
With a 13-14 record, the Warriors hold on to eighth place in the Western Conference. But with a two-game losing streak, Golden State will need to turn things around quickly if it intends to remain in the playoff picture.
