Kevin Durant Sits Out Game Against Germany But Is Still Expected To Play For Team USA

Team USA is welcoming back one of the NBA’s biggest stars, Kevin Durant, as the team prepares for the upcoming Olympics.

Durant, who has been dealing with a calf strain, returned to practice on Friday after missing all previous exhibition games. Durant was expected to make his exhibition debut against Germany on Monday, but ended up sitting out the game.

Durant’s return is a significant boost for Team USA, even if his presence doesn’t drastically alter their gold medal prospects. Durant is the all-time leading scorer for Team USA in the Olympics, with 435 points, and he already boasts three gold medals.

Having another elite playmaker like Durant eases the burden on teammates such as LeBron James and Stephen Curry. Moreover, Durant’s defensive capabilities will be crucial, especially in potential matchups against strong teams like France.

With Durant’s return, attention now shifts to the starting lineup for Team USA. While James, Curry, and Joel Embiid have been consistent starters, Durant’s addition will likely secure him a starting spot, leaving the fifth position up for grabs.

Kerr has experimented with different lineups in the exhibition games, starting players like Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker, Anthony Edwards, and Jayson Tatum. Flexibility of the teams roster allows Kerr to adjust the starting lineup based on strategy.

Durants return helps enhance the team’s on-court performance but also provides a psychological edge. The United States is ready for its fifth consecutive gold medal in Paris.