Jamal Murray invokes Jayson Tatum controversy while discussing his role with Canadian Olympic team

While Team USA has the most stacked rosters in the Olympic men’s basketball competition, Team Canada is not far behind. They feature a number of stars from NBA teams, including 2023 NBA Champion, Jamal Murray. Canada is currently 2-0, but Murray hasn’t been seeing the floor as much as many would expect.

He spoke about it with reporters on Tuesday night, shortly after Canada defeated Australia 93-83.

“We played hard tonight. We just played an extremely tough team that’s been together for a while. So, it was a good test for us. We were able to weather the storms and come away with a win,” Murray explained.

Canada’s defense was much better in the second half against Australia, limiting them to just 34 points. What was the big difference in the game, in Murray’s mind?

“I think it was exactly that. You know, we’re gonna miss and make shots but we can always put that effort in on defense, so, we did a better job of communicating. Getting back and not giving them free looks. Just making it tough on them all night. So, that was our adjustment, and we were able to pick up,” Murray continued.

How has he been feeling? There’s been plenty of chatter about Murray not being 100 percent. He scored eight points in 18 minutes in their win against Greece. And he had five points in 24 minutes against the Australians.

“Really great. Really great. Obviously, I was away from the team for a while. So, not starting. But we’ve got a bunch of selfless guys that don’t need all that. You know what I’m saying? I think we’ve got a great starting unit. Dillon’s playing amazing. Obviously, Shai, Dwight, RJ, so you know. Guys come in there. Everybody has a role [here]. You saw Jayson Tatum didn’t play a single minute,” Murray explained.

The Nuggets star is well aware there are plenty of other stars on his team. Everybody is just trying to put their egos aside and get wins. And plenty of other teams in the Olympics (like the Americans) have to manage minutes for loaded rosters.

“Tyrese Halliburton didn’t play. A lot of guys on other teams are starting on their respective NBA teams, so you know, it’s not an ego thing over here. We’re just trying to get the win. That way, it’s a lot of fun. Just a bunch of players from the same country trying to get a win. Not worrying about stats, egos, or roles,” the Nuggets star finished.

RJ Barrett led the Canadians in scoring for the second straight game on Tuesday night. Against the Aussies, he poured in 24 points on 8 of 15 shooting from the field, while stuffing the stat sheet with seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals.

Next up, Canada will take on Spain on Friday, August 2nd. That one is set for 11:15 AM EST.