Team USA overcame a slow start against Canada to secure an 86-72 victory in preparation for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Despite having an incredibly talented roster, some clear teething issues were on display to open the game. Steve Kerr’s team eventually figured things out to take control of the contest and overcome a talented Canadian roster.
Here are three lessons we learned from the opening exhibition game.
1. Joel Embiid is not 100% healthy
Despite making an impact due to his size and physicality, Embiid’s mobility looked questionable. He was sluggish getting up and down the court, and his lateral movement wasn’t at the level we’ve become used to seeing from him. Embiid is still recovering from meniscus surgery and may be forced to play a smaller role than anticipated during the Olympics, especially if he wishes to be ready for the start of the upcoming NBA season.
Nevertheless, Embiid ended the game with five points, six rebounds and two assists while shooting 50% from the field.
2. Jrue Holiday will be more than just a glue guy
Holiday was a menace on the defensive end. He recorded two blocks and impacted multiple other shots. His versatility when guarding multiple positions ensured Team USA had a strong presence at the point of attack and could connect defensive possessions into fastbreak opportunities whenever possible. He was also one of the more reliable shot-creators and offensive scoring outlets, ending the game with 11 points, five rebounds and four assists.
When the Boston Celtics acquired Holiday last summer, he was expected to be a glue guy on their roster. However, he emerged as a genuine driving force for the roster for multiple stretches this season. Based on his performance on Wednesday, he could have a similar trajectory with Team USA.
3. Anthony Davis could be Team USA’s most dominant player
Davis appears to be fully healthy and locked in for Team USA. He’s had some difficult seasons for the Los Angeles Lakers in recent years, but based on his performance against Canada, he could be set to remind the world why he’s one of the most dominant bigs in the game. On Wednesday, he was a two-way force, dominating the glass, scoring with ease and protecting the rim at every opportunity.
Davis ended the game with 10 points, 11 rebounds, two assists, two steals and four blocks. If he can stay healthy, he will likely be the driving force behind Team USA’s potential run toward a gold medal.