Team USA’s quest for Olympic gold begins Wednesday night, but they’ll be without Kevin Durant. The superstar forward is out with a calf strain he suffered before he even began training camp.
Durant has not participated in any full-contact drills or friendlies and missed Tuesday’s practice. However, there is optimism for a quick return. Coach Steve Kerr says Durant is feeling good and they are taking things day by day with the possibility of him rejoining the team for the exhibition games in Abu Dhabi.
Meanwhile, there is some positive news on another front. Kawhi Leonard, who has been battling knee inflammation, is expected to play in Wednesday’s game against Canada. Jayson Tatum also returned to the team Tuesday after missing initial practice for personal reasons.
Team USA will have a strong core on the court, including Tatum, Joel Embiid, Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker and Stephen Curry. They will face a talented group led by LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo.
While Durant’s absence is a setback, Team USA has enough depth to navigate these early exhibitions. Durant’s return will be a welcome sight once he’s healthy enough to rejoin the team.
