Who are the Warriors' rotation risers and fallers after initial preseason games?

The Golden State Warriors' identity for the upcoming season is simpler compared to last year's complex iteration. Head coach Steve Kerr expressed optimism about the team's prospects, attributing the change to the return of Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody in February, as well as the emergence of new talent like Yaxel Lendeborg. However, the rotation remains a question mark with several holes to fill.

Stephen Curry has been dominant, and Draymond Green showed promise with eight assists in a game against the Lakers, while Lendeborg demonstrated strong offensive instincts in his first NBA game. The Chronicle's assessment of the current starting lineup includes Curry, Yaxel Lendeborg, Draymond Green, Al Horford, and Brandin Podziemski at the small forward position.

For the second unit, Curry, Podziemski, Lendeborg, Gui Santos, and Green are expected to start. If Kristaps Porzingis is not ready for the Oct. 21 opener against the Lakers, the Warriors may need to adjust their starting lineup. Decision-making will be based on Horford's availability and matchups. Brandon Williams has shown promising ball-handling skills and could contribute significantly in non-Curry lineups.

Charles Bassey and Graham Ike are also standout performers in the preseason rotation. Meanwhile, Will Richard, while showing potential, currently occupies a secondary role among the reserve guards and forwards.