Jrue Holiday availability for Team USA’s final group-stage game against Puerto Rico at the 2024 Paris Olympics is uncertain due to an ankle injury he sustained in the previous match against South Sudan. Head coach Steve Kerr informed reporters that Holiday “rolled his ankle the other night” during the third quarter of the 103-86 win, but he continued to play through the discomfort. The game against Puerto Rico is scheduled for Saturday at 11:15 a.m. ET.
Originally, Kerr planned to start Holiday in the final group game, returning to the lineup used in the opening game against Serbia and most exhibition matches: Stephen Curry, Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker, LeBron James, and Joel Embiid. However, with Holiday’s status now in doubt, Kerr has various options to adjust the rotation.
If Jrue Holiday is unable to play, Derrick White is a strong candidate to fill the starting role, providing the defensive presence needed to guard Puerto Rico’s key player, Jose Alvarado. Tyrese Haliburton could then take over White’s role as the backup point guard. Another option for Kerr could be starting Jayson Tatum, who was benched in the first game but started in the win against South Sudan.
Kevin Durant is another possible replacement, though he has been coming off the bench after missing all five exhibition games with a hamstring injury. Despite this, Durant expressed his comfort with his current role, emphasizing that the most important factor is the impact players have while on the court, regardless of whether they start or come off the bench.
Team USA currently holds a 2-0 record in Group C, with a +43 point differential, the best in the tournament. Securing a win against Puerto Rico, especially with a strong point differential, would guarantee them the top seed entering the knockout stage. Coach Kerr highlighted the importance of earning the No. 1 seed to ensure a favourable quarterfinal matchup, noting that a lower seed could lead to a tougher opponent.
As Team USA aims to finish group play undefeated, Holiday’s status remains a key storyline to watch. Regardless of his availability, the depth of the American roster provides Kerr with multiple options to maintain their momentum heading into the knockout rounds.
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