Blake being considered for 2012 Olympic Team

[mkwest]

The current U.S. roster is about 30 players, but Colangelo said there are truly closer to 18 candidates for London. Referring to the roster from Beijing, he said "three or four of those spots are vulnerable," but then named seven players from 2010 who would immediately be leading contenders for spots: Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love, Tyson Chandler, Lamar Odom and Chauncey Billups.

He also hinted that Rookie of the Year Blake Griffin could be added to the roster, so realistically the Olympic roster will be a mixture of the past two U.S. teams.

Problem is, Colangelo doesn't know when, or if, he'll get to watch those players on the court again. Without the benefit of a tryout camp before picking his team, the only thing he'd be able to go on is what he sees of them during a season that may be shortened or canceled.

ESPN / AP

Gordon wasn't mentioned, but he was definitely a key contributor to the WC team with his defense and shooting. It would be nice to have 2 of our players pick up medals, but it all depends on who leaves their name in the hat. It's going to be tough to narrow down the roster to 12.

[loflin3hree5ive]

Coach K is going to want EJ. If the Clippers have two Olympians, is it possible for them NOT to make the playoffs?

[thanumba2clippersfan]

I think it would be a great experience for Blake if he is chosen. I really wouldn't mind Blake and EJ on the Olympic team.

[nets4nets]

EJ is a much better fit for team USA than Blake IMO he is a must on the team. EJ is a great shooter and defender and is effective as a low usage player which is what is badly needed on team usa.

[mkwest]

EJ is a much better fit for team USA than Blake IMO he is a must on the team. EJ is a great shooter and defender and is effective as a low usage player which is what is badly needed on team usa.

As of their abilities last season, I would agree. EJ definitely filled a need on the B-Team that nobody else could fill individually. Coach K had nothing but positive things to say about him. Blake would be playing either a big 4 or a small 5. His passing, rebounding and even his ability to push the ball would be welcomed, but there is a lack of a shooting touch (PF) and defensive presence (C). With a full year between now and the USA summer camp, both EJ and Blake may show new aspects to their games. If Blake can improve his shot out to 15 feet or so, then he could easily fit in imo. Playing with the rest of the guys and being coached by Coach K should improve his defense if he does in fact make the team.

The B-Team was rather small and EJ played SF at times. I wouldn't expect him to put in minutes at the 3 in 2012 if he made the roster. His golden ticket would be if there is a need for a shooter.

The competition is going to be stiff for both:

PG: Paul, D-Will, Rose
G: Westbrook, Gordon, Curry
G/F: Wade, Kobe, Iggy, Gay
F: LeBron, Melo, Durant, Odom
F/C: Bosh, Love, Aldridge, Griffin
C: Howard, Chandler, Lopez

Paul, Howard and Williams will all be unrestricted Free-Agents. Love, Gordon, Rose & Westbrook will be restricted free-agents if they haven't already been extended by next summer. Free-Agency and injuries are typically a factor, so anything can happen to narrow the playing field. I figure that there are about 4 spots up for grabs at most.

[RiversideClips]

Bosh won't make the team, so that may be good for Blake.
Coach K is a fan of E.J., he will find a way once again to include him on the roster.