Team USA’s roster is finally starting to take shape with 11 of the 12 roster spots filled. The team will be led by basketball legends like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and more. With one roster spot open and plenty of talent still waiting in the player pool, there has been plenty of speculation surrounding who will fill the spot.
According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, that final spot will likely go to Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard.
“Kawhi Leonard is the leading candidate for the USA vacancy with Paul George, Paolo Banchero, Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson also under consideration, sources told The Athletic.”
Shams Charania
Leonard is averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game this season with the Clippers. While he has had a great season, the injury bug has reared its head again. There is a possibility that the two-way forward could miss a game or two in the Clippers’ upcoming series against the Dallas Mavericks.
This year’s Olympic team is undeniably one of the best in recent years. Adding a player with Leonard’s skillset would just be the icing on the cake for a truly incredible lineup. Other players that could take the last spot include Jalen Brunson, Kyrie Irving, or even Leonard’s teammate Paul George.
Obviously, if any injuries were to occur to any of the 11 players already chosen, Team USA could adapt their roster from there. Leonard is the perfect player to add to the team as he can score the ball very efficiently while being a menace on the defensive side of the ball.
First things first, Leonard and his Clippers will be focused on advancing in the playoffs this year.
