Wonder who's going to replace the 40 that sit out... Also yes, bringing this thread from beyond the grave.
Compared to most other players on that list, that’s probably true. I think he’s on it because he was on the roster this summer and played well before he got hurt. His game fits international play, when all he has to do is spot up and shoot with 4 other really, really good to great players around him he’s not bad at all, even his defense was solid. It’s when decision making comes in, having to handle the ball, that he starts to show cracks. But when that’s not an issue and he can just catch and shoot and go after hustle boards he looks effective. He likely doesn’t come close to making the final rosters anyway though it any of those names that skipped out this summer do play in 2020.
no, but it's also a nice reminder that as little as 5 months ago, lots of folks held high opinions of kuz, and he had showed well for the national team.
LeBron AD KD Kawhi Harden PG Butler Kyrie Klay Steph Russ Kemba Who do you all think makes the team? I'd guess these unless they go with a traditional center or if KD, Klay, Steph are too injured to compete.
i assume you mean hypothetically...because almost none of these dudes are playing. if i were playing internationally, i'd want AD Kawhi Lebron Klay Curry good freakin' luck, opponents.
weren't they last time, as well? everyone pulls out as the tournament approaches. well in advance, it always looks like it will be stocked with stars.
I can't imagine KD or Klay would play there. They wouldn't likely jeopardize their NBA careers - not just seasons - to do that. Steph might be able to compete, but he might also want to shut it down to make sure he's healthy for next season. George said he'd play if he's healthy. Kawhi said he wants to play but is "taking it one step at a time." I think these guys play long seasons, know where their money comes from, and as many as half of those dudes won't play. In the list there, I think KD, Klay, Steph, George, and Kawhi are all bad bets. Never know with AD. A freak injury always seems to lurk for him.
I think they shouldn't put their name on the list if they aren't serious about playing. I agree that most of those you all mentioned probably shouldn't but then again if they all played it would be a dream team situation where they wouldn't need to exert much energy to win that coveted medal. They have to practice to stay in shape anyway, so why not win a gold medal while scrimmaging. No disrespect to some of the European teams who are quite good, but if the cream of the crop played, they could all load manage their way to a victory.
