# Golden State Warriors tactical shifts and roster evaluation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/golden-state-warriors-tactical-shifts
> Updated: 2026-10-12T00:45:12.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 3.

As the Golden State Warriors enter training camp, the team is refining its tactical adjustments and evaluating roster depth. The competition for the starting forward position remains a focal point, specifically between rookie Yaxel Lendeborg and Gui Santos. While Lendeborg has earned praise from Draymond Green for his shooting and intelligence, head coach Steve Kerr has noted that the 11th overall pick must become “more aggressive” to succeed at the professional level.

Regarding the offensive shift, Kerr continues to transition Draymond Green into a role focused more on play finishing than primary playmaking. This involves Green running the floor more rapidly and increasing his three-point attempts when open. Alongside these tactical changes, Green’s physical conditioning has emerged as a point of discussion following the team’s preseason debut.

Rotation possibilities may be further influenced by injuries to Jimmy Butler and Kristaps Porzingis, which could provide increased playing time for younger players like Lendeborg during the early stages of the season.

Lendeborg recently demonstrated the aggression requested by coaching staff during a 111-106 preseason victory over the Sacramento Kings. He recorded a standout performance with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, scoring 20 of his points in the first half alone. While individual performances like Lendeborg’s and Brandin Podziemski’s have emerged, Kerr faces the ongoing challenge of balancing veteran leadership with roster renewal as the regular season approaches.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-12: Golden State Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg shines in preseason win

Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg led the Golden State Warriors to a 111-106 preseason win over the Sacramento Kings with 23 points, as coach Steve Kerr faces pressure to maintain team competitiveness.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/golden-state-warriors-rookie-yaxel-lendeborg-shines-in-preseason-win

### 2026-10-04: Golden State Warriors evaluate rookie Lendeborg and Green's role in preseason

The Golden State Warriors are evaluating rookie Yaxel Lendeborg and Gui Santos for starting roles while adjusting Draymond Green's offensive responsibilities during NBA preseason training.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/golden-state-warriors-implement-strategic-shifts-for-training-camp

### 2026-09-27: Draymond Green faces new tactical roles and praises rookie Lendeborg

Draymond Green faces new tactical instructions from Steve Kerr to reduce turnovers and shoot more threes, while also praising rookie Yaxel Lendeborg's potential during training camp.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/draymond-green-faces-new-tactical-roles-and-praises-rookie-lendeborg

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Cite as: Golden State Warriors tactical shifts and roster evaluation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/golden-state-warriors-tactical-shifts