The Warriors are set to embark on their journey to reclaim the NBA title against the current defending champs, starting with Friday's (AEST) Game 1, and Golden State might get a familiar face back on the sidelines very soon.
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According to ESPN.com, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr could return to coach the team sometime during the NBA Finals. Acting head coach Mike Brown even believes he could return as soon as Thursday.
"He's talked about possibly coaching Game 1... and I even tried to tell him, 'Steve, you should do it, and if you don't feel like you're OK, halfway through the game, just go back in the back,'" Brown said Thursday.
Kerr has not coached the team since Golden State's opening playoff series against the Trail Blazers due to complications from his back surgery. He has, however, rejoined the team for travel and practice. The next step will be getting him to last an entire game on the sidelines.
Despite the long layoff, Brown does not think Kerr's possible return would be a distraction for the Warriors players.
"We have a veteran team. I don't think it will jolt our guys at all. I know it wouldn't jolt me," Brown said regarding Kerr's possible return to the bench.
"You know, I understand that that's my job. But Steve is so conscientious about the players — and you know the storyline and all these other things — that he wants to make sure that he feels good enough to come back and do it on a full-time basis and not rock the boat with anyone or not cause a distraction from our team.
"And I respect that. I'm OK with it however it happens."
For the third straight year — and no real end in sight — the Warriors and Cavaliers are facing off in the NBA Finals. Golden State has not yet lost this postseason, and are considered the favorites to hoist the trophy.
Kerr's return could give them the sentimental boost they need to beat LeBron James and the Cavs.