Predicted starting lineups and depth charts for the Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers game on January 10 of the 2024–25 NBA season

Predicted Starting Lineups and Depth Charts for the Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers Game on January 10, 2024–25 NBA Season

As the Golden State Warriors gear up for their game against the Indiana Pacers on January 10, 2024, both teams are looking to build on their recent performances and continue their momentum into the second half of the NBA season. For the Warriors, this game is crucial as they strive to maintain their positioning in the highly competitive Western Conference, while the Pacers are looking to stay relevant in the Eastern Conference playoff race. In this article, we will analyze the predicted starting lineups and depth charts for both teams and discuss how these matchups could play out.

Golden State Warriors Predicted Starting Lineup

The Warriors, led by head coach Steve Kerr, have a well-established starting lineup that combines experience, versatility, and high-level basketball IQ. Their depth, however, has been a point of focus in recent seasons, and this game will be another opportunity to showcase how their rotation and bench depth come together.

1. Stephen Curry (PG)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 30.1 PPG, 6.4 APG, 5.6 RPG

As usual, Stephen Curry will lead the charge for the Warriors. Curry remains one of the best players in the world, and his performance will be central to the team’s chances of success. Despite recent injuries, Curry continues to be the most dangerous shooter in the NBA, and his ability to create space for his teammates while stretching the defense remains unmatched. His scoring ability, playmaking, and leadership will be crucial in breaking down the Pacers’ defense.

Curry’s high basketball IQ allows him to orchestrate the Warriors’ offense, controlling tempo and finding the best shot opportunities for himself and his teammates. Expect him to play a high number of minutes, especially in a crucial game against an up-and-coming team like the Pacers.

2. Klay Thompson (SG)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 20.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 2.1 APG

Klay Thompson, the other half of the Warriors’ “Splash Brothers” duo, will start at shooting guard. Thompson has struggled with injuries in the past few seasons, but when healthy, he remains one of the most lethal shooters in the league. His off-ball movement, ability to catch and shoot, and elite shooting range make him a constant threat for opposing defenses.

The Pacers will likely have a tough time keeping Thompson from getting open looks, especially when Curry draws attention on the ball. Thompson’s defense, while not as high-profile as Curry’s offense, also plays an important role in containing opposing shooting guards.

3. Andrew Wiggins (SF)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 17.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.1 APG

Andrew Wiggins has become an integral part of the Warriors’ success, providing scoring, perimeter defense, and athleticism. Wiggins’ offensive game has blossomed since joining Golden State, and his ability to finish at the rim, shoot from beyond the arc, and create his own shot is invaluable for the team.

Defensively, Wiggins is known for his ability to guard multiple positions, making him an ideal match for defending against players like the Pacers’ Aaron Nesmith or Benedict Mathurin. Expect Wiggins to be a key player on both ends of the floor, especially when tasked with limiting the Pacers’ dynamic wing players.

4. Draymond Green (PF)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 9.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 7.3 APG

Draymond Green will continue to play his usual role as the Warriors’ defensive anchor and playmaking forward. Although Green is not known for his scoring, his value to the Warriors is immeasurable in terms of his defense, leadership, and basketball IQ. Green excels at setting up his teammates in open positions, and his passing ability from the frontcourt is one of the best in the league.

Defensively, Green will be crucial in guarding Pacers’ power forwards like Jalen Smith or even Myles Turner in the post. His versatility allows him to guard both forwards and centers, and his ability to disrupt passing lanes and force turnovers will be key in disrupting the Pacers’ offensive flow.

5. Kevon Looney (C)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 6.4 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 1.3 BPG

At center, Kevon Looney has established himself as a reliable big man for the Warriors. Known for his rebounding ability and gritty defense, Looney’s presence in the paint allows the Warriors to excel on both the offensive and defensive glass. While Looney doesn’t provide the same offensive flair as other players on the roster, his ability to protect the rim and set screens for his teammates is vital for Golden State.

In this matchup against the Pacers, Looney will likely be tasked with guarding Myles Turner, one of the league’s top shot blockers and rebounders. Looney’s focus will be on limiting Turner’s impact on both ends of the floor and providing solid screens to free up the Warriors’ perimeter shooters.

Golden State Warriors Depth Chart

• Jordan Poole (SG): Poole is a dynamic scorer off the bench and will be relied upon for instant offense. His ability to create his own shot will be critical for the Warriors’ second unit.
• Jonathan Kuminga (SF/PF): Kuminga’s athleticism and defensive ability provide valuable depth. His ability to guard multiple positions and finish around the rim makes him an important asset.
• Moses Moody (SG): Moody provides shooting depth and has shown flashes of scoring potential. His development as a reliable bench scorer has been crucial for the Warriors.
• Chris Paul (PG): The veteran point guard’s leadership and playmaking ability will be invaluable off the bench. Paul is known for his ability to control tempo and facilitate the offense.

Indiana Pacers Predicted Starting Lineup

The Pacers, coached by Rick Carlisle, are an intriguing team with a combination of youth and experience. Their fast-paced offense and ability to spread the floor make them a formidable challenge for opposing teams. However, the Warriors’ championship pedigree and experience will give them an edge in this matchup.

1. Tyrese Haliburton (PG)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 22.5 PPG, 10.1 APG, 4.5 RPG

Tyrese Haliburton has quickly emerged as one of the top young point guards in the league. Haliburton’s basketball IQ, court vision, and ability to score in multiple ways make him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. He is an elite playmaker, and his ability to set up teammates, especially Benedict Mathurin and Myles Turner, will be critical for the Pacers’ offensive success.

Haliburton’s ability to shoot from deep and create his own shot also makes him dangerous as a scoring threat. Defending him will be one of the Warriors’ primary concerns, as Haliburton can take over games both as a scorer and as a distributor.

2. Buddy Hield (SG)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 15.9 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 3.3 APG

Buddy Hield is one of the best shooters in the league and is a key part of the Pacers’ offense. His ability to shoot from long range and catch fire quickly makes him a constant threat on the floor. Hield will likely be tasked with spacing the floor and providing scoring support alongside Haliburton.

Defensively, Hield has been inconsistent, but he will need to step up and try to contain Klay Thompson or Jordan Poole on the perimeter. While Hield is primarily known for his offense, his contributions on defense will play a significant role in this matchup.

3. Aaron Nesmith (SF)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 10.3 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 1.4 APG

Aaron Nesmith has blossomed into an important piece of the Pacers’ rotation. His length and athleticism allow him to be a strong perimeter defender, and he has provided consistent scoring for Indiana this season. Nesmith will likely match up against Andrew Wiggins, whose size and scoring ability will be a challenge for Nesmith defensively. However, Nesmith’s defensive prowess will be crucial in trying to slow down Wiggins on the perimeter.

4. Jalen Smith (PF)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 11.7 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 1.2 BPG

Jalen Smith has been a steady presence in the Pacers’ frontcourt, providing both scoring and rebounding. Smith’s ability to space the floor with his shooting and play inside makes him an ideal fit in the Pacers’ system. Against the Warriors, Smith will likely have to battle Draymond Green and Kevon Looney in the post. His rebounding and rim protection will be key to limiting second-chance opportunities for the Warriors.

5. Myles Turner (C)

Stats (2023–24 Season): 17.4 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 3.0 BPG

Myles Turner is one of the premier shot blockers in the league and a crucial part of the Pacers’ defense. His ability to anchor the paint and protect the rim will be tested against the Warriors’ high-flying offense, especially with the Warriors’ guards attacking the rim and pulling up from the perimeter. Turner is also a capable scorer, both in the post and from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor while protecting the rim makes him a unique matchup for the Warriors.

Indiana Pacers Depth Chart

• Benedict Mathurin (SG): Mathurin’s scoring and athleticism make him a key contributor off the bench. His ability to drive to the basket and finish at the rim is crucial for the Pacers’ second unit