New York Knicks: Olympic Takeaways, Roster Implications, Criticism

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United States forward Carmelo Anthony (15) greets teammates on the bench during the game against Serbia in the preliminary round of the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games at Carioca Arena 1. /

U.S.A. Finishes Preliminaries 5-0

Mike Krzyzewski’s group started off strong with blowout wins against two national teams with a current combined 1-9 record. Over the last three games, the competition has pushed the U.S. basketball team to the brink.

As the veteran leader, Anthony has put the team on his back on many occasions but cooled off over the last few contests. On Sunday against France, Klay Thompson willed the team to a victory with 30 points. He shot 7-of-13 from three-point range in 26 minutes.

Anthony finished 4-of-11 from the field in 27 minutes.

Of course, Knicks fans want to see their star player excel, but it’s also important to avoid burnout. Fortunately, this isn’t Krzyzewski’s first rodeo at the Olympics, and he’s working with a skilled talented group.

Despite the nail-bitters, the U.S remains the only undefeated men’s basketball team going into the quarterfinal round. Will Anthony take it upon himself to carry his country to the gold?

Next: Sending the Wrong Message?

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