Schröder’s Debut Sparks Warriors’ Quest for Perfect Pace: Can the Speedster and the Strategist Mesh

The Golden State Warriors are known for their fast-paced style of basketball, while Dennis Schröder has built his game around a more methodical, slower approach. Ahead of his debut with the Warriors, head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged this contrast but expressed confidence that both Schröder and the team would adjust to each other. “We’re going to have to adjust to him. He’s going to have to adjust to us,” Kerr said before Schröder’s first game with Golden State against the Memphis Grizzlies.

Through the first 25 games of the season, the Warriors were playing at the NBA’s eighth-fastest pace, averaging 100.7 possessions per game. In contrast, Schröder’s former team, the Brooklyn Nets, played the slowest-paced game in the league, with just 97 possessions per game. Despite this difference, Kerr believes that Schröder, with his exceptional basketball IQ, can adapt to Golden State’s up-tempo style while also bringing his own strengths to the team.

Schröder’s game is built on a strong pick-and-roll foundation, where his ability to navigate the floor with precision allows him to create opportunities for teammates. Kerr noted that when reviewing tape of Schröder’s play, he observed that Schröder consistently pushes the ball up the court and looks to advance it quickly. “He throws the ball ahead consistently. If he gets the outlet, he looks ahead. He throws it ahead,” Kerr explained, emphasizing that this is crucial for generating the fast pace the Warriors rely on.

While Golden State’s pace is designed to prevent opposing defenses from setting up, Schröder’s ability to operate in the halfcourt with pick-and-roll actions provides a valuable counterpoint. He can use ball screens to attack the basket, drawing defenders and opening up opportunities for kickouts to shooters, passes to cutters, or finishing at the rim himself.

Schröder made his debut as part of Golden State’s 15th unique starting lineup of the season, alongside stars like Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, and Kevon Looney. Kerr is confident that Schröder’s high basketball IQ and adaptability will allow him to thrive in the Warriors’ system. “Smart, tough players adapt pretty easily to what their surroundings are,” Kerr said. With Schröder on board, the Warriors are ready to blend pace and patience to maximize their offensive potential.