In the opening game of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum unexpectedly found himself on the bench for the entire game as Team USA secured a 110-84 victory against Serbia. Coach Steve Kerr explained that he made the decision based on the combinations he felt would be most effective on the court, adding that Tatum handled the situation with utmost professionalism.

Despite Tatum's absence from the rotation, Kerr emphasized that the young forward is still considered one of the best players in the world. Tatum's impressive performances led him to make the All-NBA First Team and propelled the Celtics to a championship in the previous season. During the exhibition games leading up to the Olympics, Tatum averaged 17.6 minutes per game for Team USA.

The key difference in the Olympic opener was the return of Kevin Durant from a calf injury. Kerr explained that with Durant's addition, it became challenging to utilize more than 10 players in a 40-minute game. As a result, Tatum had to make way for Durant, despite his notable contributions in the exhibition matches.

Kerr expressed his belief in Tatum's abilities, stating that he will undoubtedly make his mark in the upcoming games. The coach emphasized the importance of focusing on the task at hand – winning six games – and leaving behind any NBA-related distractions. Kerr commended Tatum's professionalism and champion mindset, reassuring his confidence in the player's readiness for the next game.

Although Kerr had the option to alter the rotation to accommodate Tatum, he made the decision to keep the starting five intact, which included Stephen Curry, Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker, LeBron James, and Joel Embiid. Considering the formidable opposition from Nikola Jokic's team, going smaller was not a feasible strategy.

While Tatum's absence from the game was unusual, it is important to note that Tyrese Haliburton, another All-NBA player, had also been sidelined since the first half of the tune-up game against South Sudan. Kerr's coaching staff appears to have a strategy of not playing every player in every game, leading to some top-tier talent being left out.

Teammate Derrick White expressed his support for Tatum, acknowledging his exceptional skills and assuring that he is in good spirits. Tatum himself confirmed that he was not sick, dismissing any concerns of illness affecting his absence.

Looking ahead to Team USA's upcoming games against South Sudan and Puerto Rico, Kerr's coaching approach and lineup decisions remain uncertain. The question arises as to whether Durant will be inserted into the starting lineup and who will be replaced. Kerr has emphasized the importance of consistency and chemistry for both the first and second units, giving rise to potential changes in the substitution patterns.

Over the next few days, Kerr will have the opportunity to experiment with different lineup combinations in practice. As fans eagerly await the next games, it remains to be seen whether Tatum's benching in the opener was a one-time occurrence or a glimpse into the team's ongoing rotation strategy.