Warriors' JaVale McGee: May start Thursday

McGee could remain the starting center Thursday even though Zaza Pachulia (shoulder) is expected to return to action, Anthony Slater of the San Jose Mercury News reports.

Analysis:

Warriors coach Steve Kerr feels Pachulia will ultimately return to a starting role, but wants to make sure he's healthy. Kerr is also considering the possibility of leaving McGee as the full-time starter. The five-man unit featuring McGee and Golden State's four All-Stars -- Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant and Draymond Green -- is the most efficient grouping among the 90 different lineups across the NBA to have played at least 100 minutes together. Kerr will also consider the skill each player offers. McGee's strength is in the lob-and-dunk game, giving opponents one more element to consider in their own end while spacing the floor. But Pachulia is the superior defender, passer and screener.