Jamal Murray has struggled offensively in the 2024 Olympics, averaging just 5.7 points per game on 33% shooting from the field and a dismal 10% from three-point range. Despite his difficulties, Canada has managed to win their first three games, primarily due to the strong performances of his teammates.
In the opening game against Spain, Murray scored 8 points and added 3 assists and 3 turnovers on 2-6 shooting from the field and 0-3 from beyond the arc. He finished with a -21 plus-minus rating, indicating his negative impact while on the court. Nevertheless, Canada secured an 86-79 victory, thanks to RJ Barrett’s 23 points and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 21 points.
Against Australia in the second game, Murray’s struggles continued as he scored 5 points, grabbed 3 rebounds, and dished out 5 assists while shooting 2-7 from the field and 1-5 from three-point range. Once again, Canada emerged victorious, 93-83, with Barrett contributing 24 points, Gilgeous-Alexander adding 16, and Dillon Brooks chipping in 16 points.
In the third game, facing Spain again, Murray managed only 4 points, 4 rebounds, and 6 assists on 2-5 shooting from the field and 0-2 from three-point range. Despite his ongoing offensive woes, Canada narrowly won 88-85, with Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 20 points, Barrett adding 16, and Andrew Nembhard contributing 18 points.
Throughout these three tough games, Canada has shown resilience and depth, often relying on the scoring prowess of Barrett and Gilgeous-Alexander to pull through. However, as they advance to the knockout stages, the competition will become even more challenging, with the United States, Germany, France, Serbia, and South Sudan all performing at a high level.
For Canada to pose a genuine threat to Team USA, Jamal Murray will need to find his form and contribute more significantly on the offensive end. His ability to step up and perform at a higher level could be the key to Canada’s success in the latter stages of the tournament.
Canada Could Face Team USA In The Semifinals
Canada’s men’s basketball team has demonstrated its strength in the 2024 Olympics, securing three wins in the group stage. Despite these victories, Canada is unlikely to finish among the top two seeds due to their point differential of +20. Team USA, boasting a point differential of +43 through two games, and Germany, leading with +47, are set to secure the top spots.
Assuming Team USA wins their upcoming game, Canada will be placed in pot E, positioning them to face the fifth-place team in the quarterfinals. Australia has clinched a sixth-place finish but cannot be a quarterfinal opponent for Canada due to their previous round-robin encounter. This leaves the potential for a clash with the United States as early as the semifinals, barring an unlikely upset against Puerto Rico.
The tournament bracket is shaping up such that Germany and Team USA are likely to play against the two lowest-ranked teams. Australia will face the fourth-place team. With France, Brazil, Serbia, South Sudan, and Greece also in the mix, the competition is heating up.
Serbia and South Sudan’s upcoming game will determine additional placements, following Team USA vs. Puerto Rico match. Canada, having topped their group with wins over Australia, Greece, and Spain, is on a solid path but must navigate a challenging knockout stage.
Despite the rise of international basketball, Team USA remains the most formidable opponent. Led by LeBron James and an array of NBA superstars, the Americans are favorites to win their fifth consecutive gold medal. They have started strong, going 2-0 in their group stage games.
With Team USA heavily favored to win against Puerto Rico, Saturday’s draw will be crucial in determining Canada’s quarterfinal opponent. If Canada continues their strong performance and avoids early setbacks, they could face Team USA in the semifinals, setting up a high-stakes matchup between two basketball powerhouses. The Canadian team will need to bring their best game to challenge the American dominance and keep their gold medal hopes alive.
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