Head Coach Steve Kerr’s Bold Lineup Choices: No Tatum or Durant in Team USA’s Starting Five

After a four-day training camp in Las Vegas, Team USA is set to face Canada in an exhibition game at the T-Mobile Arena. This matchup marks the first meeting between the two teams since the Canadians defeated the Americans at the 2023 FIBA World Cup. While this is a no-bearing game, fans are eagerly anticipating the outcome, especially with the star-studded lineups on both sides.

For Team USA, head coach Steve Kerr has chosen LeBron James, Joel Embiid, Devin Booker, Jrue Holiday, and Steph Curry to start the game. This decision quickly ignited a flurry of reactions from basketball fans and analysts alike.

One fan on social media exclaimed, “No Tatum or KD is wild,” reflecting the surprise many felt over the exclusion of Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum and Phoenix Suns’ Kevin Durant from the starting five.

A couple of fans trolled Tatum over not starting, with one remarking, “Tatum got his chain snatched by Jrue Holiday in practice, I’m cringe.” Another added, “They chose a Celtics role player over another, nothing wrong.”

An ardent supporter of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who will start for Canada, confidently stated, “Just to lose to Shai.”

Another fan questioned Kerr’s choices, saying, “Woahhh surprised Ant-man not starting and Jrue over Tatum lol,” referring to Minnesota Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards.

Kevin Durant is being held out due to a minor calf injury, while Jayson Tatum, although healthy, was two days late to training camp for personal reasons. Despite their absence from the starting lineup, Kerr is expected to rely heavily on both players as the game progresses.

Team Canada’s starting lineup features OKC Thunder stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort, alongside Denver Nuggets point guard Jamal Murray, Houston Rockets’ enforcer Dillon Brooks, and Dallas Mavericks center Dwight Powell. The Canadian team, led by head coach Nick Nurse, is determined to replicate their success from the FIBA World Cup.

While Kerr’s decision to bench some of his biggest stars has raised eyebrows, it’s clear that the Americans boast the deepest and most talented roster. Besides the starting five, head coach Steve Kerr can call upon Durant, Tatum, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, Bam Adebayo, and Derrick White from the bench.

Kerr’s approach to the starting lineup is strategic, focusing on “chemistry” and players with “two-way” impact. He emphasized his intent to experiment with different combinations to find the optimal mix. This flexibility is aimed at developing a rhythm and cohesion among the players, which will be crucial as they prepare for the Paris Olympics.

The controversy surrounding the roster decisions underscores the immense talent and depth of Team USA. Steve Kerr’s strategic choices reflect a deep understanding of the game’s dynamics, prioritizing team chemistry over individual star power. This approach, though surprising to some, could be the key to building a cohesive and unstoppable unit.

The excitement and debates sparked by the starting lineup highlight the passionate engagement of basketball fans. While the absence of Tatum and Durant from the starting five may seem perplexing, it’s a testament to the wealth of talent at Kerr’s disposal. This depth allows for strategic flexibility, which could be pivotal in high-stakes games. Ultimately, the focus should be on the collective strength and chemistry of the team, rather than individual accolades.

As Team USA gears up for the exhibition game against Canada, all eyes will be on how the players gel together on the court. The outcome of this match, while not affecting any standings, will provide valuable insights into the team’s readiness for the Paris Olympics. With a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, Team USA is poised to make a significant impact, regardless of who takes the first shot.