Team USA continues to steamroll through their Olympic exhibition schedule, dominating Serbia for their third straight win. But it’s not just the usual suspects like Curry and James leading the charge. The bench, a dynamic force led by Edwards, Davis, Booker, and Adebayo, is turning heads and raising questions about the starting lineup.
Anthony Edwards exploded off the bench against Serbia, dropping 16 points in a fiery display of athleticism and scoring. Not to be outdone, Bam Adebayo anchored the paint with 17 points and eight rebounds, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess.
But the most intriguing storyline revolves around the battle of the big men: Anthony Davis versus Joel Embiid. Davis, despite coming off the bench, has consistently outplayed the struggling Embiid. While Davis’s stat line of seven points, six rebounds, and six blocks may not scream dominance, his impact on the game has been undeniable. He’s been a defensive menace, altering shots, protecting the rim, and providing a spark of energy whenever he steps on the court.
Embiid, on the other hand, has looked out of sorts. The physicality he thrives on has been stifled by the referees, and his offensive game has yet to find its rhythm. This has led to speculation about a potential lineup change, with Davis potentially replacing Embiid in the starting five.
Steve Kerr expects to continue playing LeBron, Steph, and Embiid as starters: “Yeah, I like those three guys in the starting lineup. We’ve been looking at other guys around them and we obviously do have great options, but I like those three guys together.” pic.twitter.com/y0C6hJpW9U
— Fadeaway World (@FadeawayWorld) July 17, 2024
Coach Steve Kerr, however, remains committed to starting Embiid alongside James and Curry. But with Davis’s stellar performance off the bench, the pressure is mounting for Kerr to reconsider his options. It’s a high-stakes gamble, but one that could pay off handsomely if Davis continues his dominant play.
As the Olympics draw closer, all eyes will be on Team USA’s frontcourt. Will Embiid find his groove, or will Davis’s undeniable impact force Kerr’s hand? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Team USA’s bench is a force to be reckoned with, and their performance could be the key to Olympic gold.