Derrick White could potentially replace Kawhi Leonard in Team USA if the Los Angeles Clippers star is not ready.
The American player has missed the last eight games of the NBA regular season, because of injury. He then missed four in the playoffs, where the LA based team lost against the Dallas Mavericks.
Hence, that is why there are eyebrows raised about his readiness. Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN said that he could be replaced by the Boston Celtics guard who is having a great season.
“I’m told that Derrick White will be a prominent replacement candidate for USA Basketball’s summer Olympic roster if the Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard is not able to fully rehab back that knee injury that ended his playoff season prematurely. That’s certainly something USA Basketball is monitoring.”
White started 73 games in the regular season for the Boston Celtics and all 18 playoff games thus far, making his second-straight All-Defensive Team. In the regular season, White averaged 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1 steal and 1.2 blocks a game on 40% shooting from deep.
Team USA will compete in the Olympic Games against Serbia, South Sudan and the winner of the Olympic Qualifying Tournament which is held in San Juan, Puerto Rico.