Despite an outstanding 2023-24 season with the New York Knicks, where he averaged 28.7 points and 6.7 assists, Jalen Brunson was notably absent from the list of 11 players reportedly chosen to represent the United States in men’s basketball at the upcoming Paris Olympics.

According to various sources, the Team USA roster comprises LeBron James and Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers, Stephen Curry from the Golden State Warriors, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker from the Phoenix Suns, Joel Embiid from the Philadelphia 76ers, Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday from the Boston Celtics, Anthony Edwards from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Bam Adebayo from the Miami Heat, and Tyrese Haliburton from the Indiana Pacers.

The possibility of adding one more player to the roster remains open, as reported by The Athletic’s Shams Charania and Joe Vardon, with Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers being the frontrunner for the spot. However, his teammate Paul George, along with Jalen Brunson, Paolo Banchero from the Orlando Magic, and Mikal Bridges from the Brooklyn Nets, are also being considered.

One factor that could work against Brunson’s selection is the surplus of playmakers already on the team. With two natural point guards in Curry and Haliburton, as well as a versatile guard in Holiday and James, who often handles the ball as a point forward, the team is well-stocked in terms of ball-handling abilities.

Additionally, the team boasts numerous options at the center position, with Embiid expected to start and both Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo serving as viable backups. This leaves fewer spots available for wing players, making Leonard and George strong contenders due to their versatility and skill sets.

With two natural point guards in Curry and Haliburton, a versatile guard in Holiday, and James often orchestrating as a point forward, Jalen Brunson faces tough competition for a spot on the roster due to Team USA’s surplus of ball-handlers. Additionally, the team boasts ample options at the center position, with Embiid, Davis, and Adebayo in the mix, leaving fewer spots available for wing players like Brunson.

Despite his impressive credentials, including a potential All-NBA selection and leading the Knicks to the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs, cracking the Dream Team roster is a formidable challenge. Brunson’s focus may now shift towards pursuing an NBA title as his ultimate goal.