Warriors Embrace Small-Ball Strategy in Preseason Win
The NBA preseason offers teams a unique opportunity to experiment with fresh ideas and innovative lineup combinations. In their opening exhibition game, the Golden State Warriors showcased the potential of a small-ball lineup, earning a 111-103 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. This win not only marked the beginning of their new campaign but also hinted at a promising direction for their starting rotation.
Kerr’s Confidence in Small-Ball Lineup
After the game, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed his enthusiasm for the team’s small-ball approach. He emphasized the vital role of Moses Moody, the Warriors’ former No. 14 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, in this configuration.
“What I like about this small lineup is that it really empowers Moses to be that disruptor defensively, which he was right away,” Kerr remarked. He noted Moody’s immediate impact, citing his ability to force deflections and contribute offensively. “He had a couple deflections, you could feel his presence right away, and then he has this great shooting night. I love starting Moses for that reason.”
Moses Moody Shines in Limited Minutes
In just 15 minutes on the court, Moody made a significant impression, displaying both defensive versatility and sharp shooting. The 23-year-old guard led all scorers with 19 points, hitting five of his seven three-point attempts and finishing with an impressive plus-minus of +21. His performance was complemented by the iconic Stephen Curry, who added 14 points on an efficient 71.4% shooting in the first half.
Moody’s dynamic play and ability to stretch the floor were crucial in giving the Warriors an edge, particularly against a Lakers squad missing key stars like Luka Dončić and LeBron James. His contributions not only enhanced the team’s offensive output but also solidified his role as a potential cornerstone of the starting unit moving forward.
Looking Ahead for the Warriors
The Warriors previously found success with Moody in their lineup during the 2024-25 regular season, especially after acquiring Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat. Kerr’s inclination to integrate Moody as a key starter again this year reflects the coach’s belief in the guard’s potential to make an impact at the beginning of games.
As the preseason unfolds, Kerr will undoubtedly continue to assess the effectiveness of this small-ball strategy and Moody’s role within it. The early signs point to a promising synergy that could define the Warriors’ approach in the months to come.
