Projected Warriors starting lineup against Lakers in Game 2 of Western Conference Semifinals

After the Warriors struggled with the Lakers’ defense in Game 1, they may have to consider a starting lineup change. Here’s what’s on the table.

The Lakers stole homecourt advantage from the Warriors with a 117-112 win in Game 1. There were several key factors for the Warriors — Jarred Vanderbilt’s defense on Steph Curry, an enormous free-throw disparity driven by an inability or unwillingness to attack the paint, the stout interior defense and rebounding of Anthony Davis.

Many of those factors were interrelated and the Warriors may need to at least consider some tweaks to their rotation going forward. Inserting Jordan Poole into the starting lineup for Draymond Green would be a dramatic, and perhaps unlikely move, but they need to figure out how to get into the teeth of the Lakers’ defense without giving up too much size and strength to Davis.

Warriors projected starting lineup for Game 2

PG: Steph Curry
SG: Klay Thompson
SF: Andrew Wiggins
PF: Draymond Green
C: Kevon Looney
Bench: Jordan Poole, Donte DiVincenzo, Gary Payton II, JaMychal Green, Jonathan Kuminga

I’m guessing starting Poole is probably a bridge too far, especially with the external heat he took for a questionable 3-point attempt in the closing moments of Game 1. However, the Warriors may turn to their bench earlier and look to spread the floor a bit more when the opportunity presents itself.

The other wrinkle may be finding some minutes for Jonathan Kuminga, who did not play at all in Game 1. JaMychal Green is the only frontcourt player who came off the bench in Game 1 and Kuminga’s athleticism and energy may help combat Davis’ advantage on the glass without sacrificing speed or transition opportunities.

Check out The Step Back for more news, analysis, opinion and unique basketball coverage. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our daily email newsletter, The Whiteboard.