Rajon Rondo's withdrawal from the U.S. national team - presumably to avoid being the final cut - ensured that one of Mike Krzyzewski's favorite players (Stephen Curry) was included on the 12-man roster. Though the Warriors second-year point guard has been inconsistent in the exhibition games leading up to this weekend's World Championships in Istanbul, his quick recovery from a mild ankle sprain enabled him to withstand any threat from Rondo and kept him apace of Eric Gordon. From the opening day of camp in Las Vegas, Krzyzewski has praised Curry and repeatedly stated his preference for guards and wings who excel at three basic elements: (a) they can shoot, (b) they don't need the ball a lot and (c), they apply defensive pressure at the other end. Hence, his selections of Kevin Durant (a lock long before the training camp), Derrick Rose, Chauncey Billups, Gordon, Russell Westbrook, Rudy Gay, Danny Granger, Lamar Odom and Andre Iguodala, who made the squad because of his length, defense and sheer athleticism. The thin frontcourt of Kevin Love and center Tyson Chandler remains the main concern, as was apparent in Sunday's thrilling exhibition win over Spain. Get used to seeing the Lakers' wiry Odom at center.
What would Tyreke Evans have done?
It's really unfortunate that Tyreke Evans sprained his left ankle on the opening day of camp and never had the chance to participate. I was as curious as anyone to see how the second-year guard adapted to Krzyzewski's system. Partly because the team is so heavy with guards and wings, Krzyzewski planned to experiment with the 6-foot-6 Evans at two-guard and combo forward. In other words, he wanted to evaluate the Rookie of Year's play off the ball. Even if Tyreke had failed to make the final roster - and he was a longshot all along - this would have been a terrific tutorial. He would have been exposed to an uptempo style, surrounded by excellent passers and versatile teammates. Maybe next time ...
Spain without Jose Calderon
Jose Calderon's injury weakens Spain ... sort of. The Spanish team rallied when Ricky Rubio returned to the lineup. His playmaking, harassing defense and energy earned praise from the Americans. His mid-range jumper looks better, as well. He might not be ready for the NBA, but it might be time for him to succeed the enigmatic Calderon, who is coming off a terrible season with the Raptors.
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