Golden State Warriors: 3 takeaways from Game 4 vs. Spurs
1. The shorter, higher ceiling
Regardless of why or when Kerr makes adjustments, we know that he isn’t afraid to change things that aren’t working. As a result, the Warriors could have a different starting center in Game 5.
McGee was stellar in Game 1. He scored 15 points, going 5-of-7 from the field and 5-of-6 from the line. He added two blocks and a steal, and was +16 for the game. Even his defense on LaMarcus Aldridge — a guy you would expect to dominate McGee — was impressive.
Since then, he has gotten progressively worse. This bears out in both the box score and the eye test. He’s only gotten to the line twice since Game 1, the same number of times he’s gotten to opponents’ shots. He’s been a -4 over the last three games, as his defense has fallen precipitously.
After struggling against Zaza Pachulia last year, Aldridge has put together a fine series for himself this year. McGee’s lack of awareness and strength has allowed the Spurs’ big to get on the offensive glass (2.5 offensive boards per game) and to the foul line (7.0 attempts per game, of which he is hitting 6.8).
In Game 4, Aldridge realized another way he could capitalize on McGee — stepping out to 3. While one of his three triples was a prayer that banked in amidst terrific defense from Green, the other two came due to a sleeping McGee.
Kerr might normally worry about benching a guy in Round 1 and hurting his confidence. With Anthony Davis and a James Harden–Clint Capela pick-and-roll likely looming in May, McGee’s time as a starter will probably be short lived either way.
Do not be surprised if Kerr goes to Kevon Looney in Game 5, who is a more mobile, aware defender. He is stronger in the post and the boards, and a better matchup for Davis should the Warriors advance.
The other option, and the one that I believe would work best, is starting Green at center. Although these lineups lost much of their luster this season (and particularly when Curry was out), they are a much different beast with a fully engaged Green and Iguodala.
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Kerr may want to save his small lineup for later in the playoffs. Given the preemptive adjustments he’s made thus far, however, look for Green at the 5 in Game 5 — if not to start, then for the bulk of his minutes.