The Most Realistic Players Who Could Replace Joel Embiid And Kawhi Leonard On 2024 Team USA

Kyrie Irving's dynamic playmaking and scoring ability make him a formidable replacement for Kawhi Leonard. His agility and skill set will undoubtedly unsettle opponents, while his versatility allows him to seamlessly slot into the shooting guard position alongside Steph Curry as the point guard.

With Irving's inclusion, Anthony Edwards can transition to small forward, forming a potent lineup that capitalizes on Irving's offensive prowess and defensive disruption. Irving is on a tear right now in the postseason with the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 26.5 points per game on 44.9% from three, so he would be a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Jimmy Butler

Jimmy Butler's addition to Team USA brings a valuable combination of defensive prowess, leadership, and a hunger for championship success. As a player who has yet to secure an NBA championship, Butler's determination and tenacity on both ends of the court make him a vital asset as he looks for his second gold medal.

His elite defensive skills and unwavering toughness set a high standard for his teammates, inspiring them to elevate their game. Additionally, Butler's leadership abilities enable him to guide Team USA, instilling confidence and composure, particularly in crucial moments. His presence not only bolsters the team's defensive capabilities but also provides the necessary edge to secure early leads and maintain pressure on opponents throughout the game.

Donovan Mitchell

Donovan Mitchell emerges as another potent asset for Team USA, renowned as one of the NBA's premier shooting guards, trailing only Edwards and Booker in that sense. His elite scoring ability and athleticism make him a formidable threat, whether starting or coming off the bench. Mitchell's knack for putting points on the board with flair and efficiency adds a dynamic dimension to Team USA's offense. 

With the capacity to dominate games singlehandedly, Mitchell has the potential to propel Team USA to overwhelming victories, particularly against weaker opponents, by spearheading scoring barrages and ensuring the team puts up imposing numbers on the scoreboard.

Paolo Banchero

Paolo Banchero's recent playoff performance showcased his exceptional talent, averaging an impressive 27.0 points and 8.6 rebounds per game at just 21 years old. Renowned for his elite scoring ability, Banchero possesses the size and athleticism to dominate the paint while seamlessly transitioning to lead fast breaks for Team USA.

His unique skill set presents a perfect blend of Joel Embiid's interior presence and Kawhi Leonard's versatility. Additionally, Banchero injects youthful energy and stamina into the roster, offering a promising outlook for the team's success because some superstars are not in their prime anymore including James, Durant, and Curry.

Trae Young

Despite the potential pecking order dynamics with Kyrie Irving likely favored as the point guard, Trae Young's prowess as a scorer and distributor cannot be overlooked. Averaging impressive stats of 25.7 points and 10.8 assists per game in the NBA this season, Young offers a dynamic skill set that could benefit the team, especially if additional playmaking and quickness are desired.

His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates adds depth to the roster and provides flexibility in offensive strategies. While his role may be influenced by the presence of other point guards, Young's talent and versatility ensure he remains a compelling option for Team USA.

Who Are The Two Best Replacements For Team USA?

The two best replacements for Team USA would be Kyrie Irving and Paolo Banchero. Kyrie Irving's elite scoring ability, prime athleticism, and capacity to dominate one-on-one matchups make him an ideal choice for the team. Meanwhile, Paolo Banchero's versatility as a scorer both inside and outside, coupled with his imposing size at 6'10" and 250 lbs, positions him as a perfect replacement for Joel Embiid.

While Jimmy Butler's two-way prowess is commendable, his age and potential health concerns following his absence from this year's playoffs may limit his impact. Ultimately, the combination of Irving's scoring prowess and Banchero's versatility presents Team USA with the best chance for success on the international stage. Donovan Mitchell might be the better player than Kyrie Irving, Irving has proven to be a winner for Team USA with a gold medal already and that could be the difference.