Kobe Bryant's Olympic Struggles

He’s clearly forcing shots and at times, struggling to get to the basket (two offensive fouls vs. Argentina). He’s the only player on Team USA shooting under 40 percent from the field (14-of-36, 38 percent). He’s got just seven rebounds in five games – Carmelo Anthony, who has been playing some power forward, has eight offensive boards. Kobe’s the only player besides center Anthony Davis with more turnovers (5) than assists (4). In his last two games, Kobe is 4-for-17 shooting.

Before Lakers fans freak out … obviously, this isn’t a big deal. LeBron is The Man on the team, as evidenced by the end of the Lithuania game and the start of the 2nd half vs. Argentina (not to mention that he’s the best player in the NBA). Kevin Durant, if given open looks, will destroy you from deep (20-of-33, 60 percent on 3-pointers) and Carmelo Anthony has proven he’s capable of the same (15-of-25 from deep).

Frankly, Team USA could start Kobe, play him for the first eight minutes, and sit him the rest of the game and it is unlikely anyone would notice. In fact, I bet Mike Brown would love it if Kobe got some extra rest. Between 82 games next season and possibly another 15-20 before the NBA Finals, the soon-to-be 34-year-old might finally show signs of slowing down. With Steve Nash in the mix, the Lakers will be title contenders.

And Team USA has other concerns, anyway. Like how thin they are inside, and what that could mean against Spain in the gold medal game.