The unexpected benching of Jayson Tatum during Team USA’s Olympic opener against Serbia was definitely a surprise. As one of the NBA’s brightest stars, coming off a title with the Celtics, Tatum’s absence from the court has raised eyebrows and sparked intense debate. This decision by Coach Steve Kerr has led to speculation about Team USA’s rotation strategy and its potential impact on future games. The ramifications of Tatum’s limited playing time extend beyond just one game, prompting questions about Team USA’s depth and overall game plan, with no minutes for Pacers’ PG Tyrese Haliburton either.
Coach Kerr’s Explanation
Steve Kerr provided insight into his decision to keep Tatum on the bench. He explained that with Kevin Durant returning from a calf injury, it became challenging to include more than 10 players in the rotation during a 40-minute game. Kerr emphasized that he had spoken to Tatum before the game about the possibility of not playing, given Durant’s return and the specific lineup combinations he wanted to use. He assured that Tatum handled the situation professionally and that his playing time would change in future games. If Kerr sticks to his word, somebody has to get the short end of the rotation. Kerr emphasized that the situation will change, admitting to feeling “like an idiot” for not playing him. He then assured that we would see Tatum against South Sudan.
The Bigger Picture
Team USA’s roster for the Paris Olympics boasts an impressive array of talent, combining seasoned veterans with rising stars. The team features 14 gold medals in major international competitions and a staggering 84 All-Star appearances.
The roster spans different generations, blending the experience of future Hall of Famers like LeBron James, Steph Curry and Kevin Durant with the youthful enthusiasm of players such as Jayson Tatum, Devin Booker and Anthony Edwards. This mix of talent and experience creates a formidable force on the court, with players capable of shooting, initiating offense, and playing both big and small.
The Challenge of a 10-Man Rotation
In a 40-minute game, it’s incredibly difficult to give playing time to more than 10 players. This limitation is also why Tyrese Haliburton didn’t see any minutes in Sunday’s game either, although he was slowly being phased out of the rotation during the exhibition games. Kerr acknowledges the complexity of the situation, stating, “It’s crazy. I thought I was crazy when I looked at everything and determined these are the lineups that I want to get to.”
Kevin Durant’s Return
The return of Kevin Durant from a calf injury was the main catalyst for the rotation issue. Despite the long layoff, KD showed no signs of rust, leading Team USA in scoring against Serbia with 23 points, and hit his first eight shots.
Is Kevin Durant the best basketball player in Olympic history? pic.twitter.com/oBgTbVgGSE
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 29, 2024
“[Jayson Tatum] handled it well. I talked to him today before the game, that it may play out this way just with Kevin [Durant] coming back... I felt like an idiot not playing him... [In] a 40-minute game, you can't play more than 10."
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 28, 2024
— Steve Kerr 👀pic.twitter.com/Xxs5eRFbt9
Still Finding Balance
KD’s injury was the wrench thrown into this process of finding the best lineups during the exhibition games, but now that he’s healthy, should he be inserted into the starting lineup? Who will go to the bench, and who will be removed from the rotation to make room for Tatum? If that’s the route Kerr wants to go.
I will stand on business that Anthony Davis or Bam Adebayo should start at Center. If that move is made, then Tatum is in the rotation, and I’m fine with Embiid being the odd man out. I still maintain the position that he is the worst starter for the USA.
There is not one thing Davis or Bam cannot do for the United States in that role. Davis has great chemistry with LeBron James, and when he subbed in for Embiid it sparked a run for the United States. The tournament is only two weeks long, so these decisions need to be made rather quickly, but should not be done hastily.
Possible Starters to be Replaced
The current starting lineup consists of Stephen Curry, Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker, LeBron James, and Joel Embiid. Devin Booker left his mark in the opening game, showing Steve Kerr why he should remain in the starting lineup. Jrue Holiday also brought his consistent self, but may be the odd man out when Durant enters.
2nd Unit Flexibility
The second unit has shown flexibility, with players like Anthony Edwards making a strong case for increased playing time. Edwards has been the first option off the bench and has often found himself on the court during crucial moments and closing minutes. The coaching staff has demonstrated a willingness to experiment with different combinations, as seen with the insertion of Derrick White into the rotation for brief stints.
Team USA’s depth allows for various lineup possibilities. While some players like Tyrese Haliburton have seen limited playing time, others such as Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo have shown strong chemistry on the court. Many fans acknowledge that the team can improve by simple fine tuning. The idea is to really evaluate how good they were from opening exhibition tip to their hopeful Gold Medal game appearance.
Anthony Edwards my goodness what a move pic.twitter.com/300jgf2VY8
— LakeShow Highlights (@LSH_lakeshow) July 28, 2024
Bam Adebayo just guarded 2 players at once and one of them is the best player in the world
— Heat Clips 🎬 (@Demar305) July 28, 2024
he didnt let a shot go up. pic.twitter.com/AoVYDjT5QS
Tougher Opponents Ahead
While Team USA remains the favorite to clinch another gold medal, the global basketball landscape has evolved significantly. Although it ended in domination on Sunday, Coach Kerr and his staff are acutely aware of the challenges ahead.
Grant Hill, the Team USA managing-director, emphasized the importance of film study and specific drills to reinforce FIBA-style play and alter NBA habits that may not translate well to international competition. This preparation is crucial as Team USA faces a rematch against the emerging South Sudan squad and will finish group play against Puerto Rico.
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