The 2024 Paris Olympics are only two weeks away! As preparations are in full swing, the USA’s men’s basketball roster recently underwent a significant change, as Kawhi Leonard was forced to exit in light of his recurring right knee inflammation problem. Now, with Kevin Durant finding himself in the same boat as his compatriot, some feel the veteran should take a voluntary exit.

Earlier today, Chris Broussard and Rob Parker on ‘The Odd Couple’ pod touched base on the calf strain that KD recently sustained at training camp. Knowing the value that the player holds for Team USA, Broussard highlighted being not too eager about removing him from the roster. At the same time, however, the question has to be raised on whether the risk is worth taking.

His co-host Rob Parker agreed, claiming that Kevin Durant is currently in the latter stages of his career and should maintain his health for the NBA and the Phoenix Suns. After all, having already won three Olympic Golds, KD may not be missing out on much. “He’s got three gold medals,” exclaimed Broussard. “It’s a tad bit baffling. I mean, really, you know.”

Parker continued, “You’ve done it, you’ve experienced it, you’ve won gold medals. It’s different for the guys who have never done it, and it’s their first chance. I get that, but guys who have already won, what are you repeating about?” While Kevin Durant admitted that his injury happened 10 days before the training camp, it started to affect him during the practice sessions, too.

In a statement, KD revealed that he was “feeling better” and that he was “just working through it and taking it day by day.”

Notably, he won his Olympic Golds during the London, Rio de Janeiro, and Tokyo editions. Unfortunately, while Kevin Durant may be the most experienced player on the roster except for LeBron James, he is also among the oldest. The age factor was another worrisome fact. Rob Parker was blunt in an earlier response by stating that “not convinced that they’re going to win Gold.” Add an injury factor to the mix, and the analysts may end up losing all hope for Team USA to win their 5th consecutive Gold medal.

Grant Hill and Steve Kerr provide an update on Kevin Durant’s injury

The appearance of Kevin Durant’s injury at the training camp kept him off the court for quite some time. Later on, it was Marc J. Spears who reported that the 35-year-old would not be available for Team USA’s first exhibition game against Canada. Now, after having given the player an ample amount of rest, head coach Steve Kerr has raised assurances that Durant is good to go. “He’s assuring me that it’s not bad,” Kerr highlighted in a statement.

“We’re just going to be really careful and smart and take it day by day and go from there.” Having coached KD during the player’s three-year stint with the Golden State Warriors, Steve is well aware of just how far the 14x NBA All-Star’s capabilities can take them.

The managing director of Team USA, Grant Hill, did not choose to take a separate stance than the one provided by his team’s coach. In a statement, he highlighted that the vet may not end up having the same fate as Kawhi Leonard. “Durant will be on the plane,” he said.

“He’s been working and rehabbing. He’s looked great. I think we are just being cautious and conservative. I think we expect to see him on the court when we are in Abu Dhabi.” Even in Kevin Durant’s absence, if that situation occurs, a star-filled roster will still be heading to Paris. However, having the 3-time gold medallist on their side is a boost that no team would deny possessing!

Before leaving, be sure to check out some insights that Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, shared about the Lakers legend’s infamous feud with the late Kobe Bryant.