Canada continued its hot start to the Olympics with a 93-83 win over Australia on Tuesday. Canada is among the favorites to win a gold medal in Paris and reaffirmed its credentials with a convincing performance against a strong Australian team.
Here are three takeaways from Canada’s win.
1. Canada has everything
From high-level role players to genuine star talent, the Canadian National Team has everything. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a top-10 player in the world and arguably the best guard. If Canada can stay healthy for the duration of the tournament, it should be expected to be in the final, where a silver or gold medal is guaranteed.
Furthermore, unlike Team USA, Canada has built this roster over multiple years. There is a genuine team chemistry on the roster. Everyone is playing for the same reason and pulling in the same direction. They’re a joy to watch.
2. Australia is one star away
When watching Australia play, you can’t help but feel like it is one star away from being genuine contenders. Dyson Daniels gives it elite defense. Josh Giddey provides high-level playmaking and rebounding with some secondary scoring. And Josh Green leads the role players in terms of athleticism and versatility.
Ben Simmons was once viewed as the star Australia needed. While that may still come to fruition, it’s becoming clear that Australia is one piece short of being a true threat for a gold medal at these Olympics, at least in basketball.
3. Kelly Olynyk needs more playing time
Olynyk saw the floor for 4 minutes and 42 seconds. While there’s no denying that Dwight Powell was incredibly impactful throughout the game, Canada must find a way to get its stretch-five into the action.
When he’s on the court, Olynyk stretches the defense in ways Powell can’t. Last season, Olynyk shot 38.7 percent from the perimeter. With FIBA’s shorter three-point line, he could be a legitimate weapon for Canada to lean on.
As the tournament progresses and the level of competition continues to rise, playing Olynyk in a bigger role should become mandatory. He can space the floor, rebound and create for others on the perimeter. He is the ideal fit next to Jamal Murray and Alexander.