As Team USA begins preparations for the Paris Olympics this summer, head coach Steve Kerr must figure out how to manage all the talented players on the team. Team USA features players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, and Joel Embiid. Managing the talent and personalities will require a lot of effort from Kerr and his entire coaching staff. The key to building a great team for Team USA is to have a good balance of talent among all the superstars.
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With James likely retiring within the next few seasons, this summer could be his final appearance as a member of the U.S. national team. With James approaching 40 and a team loaded with young talent, could we see him on the bench this summer?
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According to Joe Vardon of The Athletic:The idea of James not starting seems unfeasible.
“It’s highly unlikely we’ll see James coming off the bench,” Vardon revealed. “I’ve spoken with two sources within USA Basketball, and both have serious doubts about that notion, so I appreciate the work being done and hope everyone understands that Kerr and his staff will have a difficult task ahead of them in selecting starters for a 12-man roster of stars and securing playing time.”
There was no way he wouldn’t start, especially with this expected to be his final appearance. He’s one of the leaders on this roster, so it makes the most sense for him to start. Kerr and his staff may limit James’ minutes due to his age, but James will be a full presence with this team over the summer.
Kerr spoke about his plans for the lineup rotation and acknowledged the problem he faces is a good one.
“That’s a great question.” Carr said last week.“My staff and I have talked about it quite a bit. It’s a good problem to have, but I expect all 12 players on this roster will be Hall of Famers one day. So how do you pick five out of 12? It’s about finding combinations that work, finding two-way lineups that are effective on either side. So our big job in Las Vegas is to find a combination of five and ask all 12 guys to be committed to the goal of winning a gold medal, no matter what the situation is, no matter who’s playing.”
Team USA’s goal is very simple: win a gold medal. On paper, at least, this is the best team they’ve fielded since the Dream Team in 1992. So, with the star-studded lineup on their roster, there’s no excuse not to go for gold this summer.
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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom, seeking common ground and finding connections.
