Late in the first quarter of USA's 120-65 win over Canada in Las Vegas, there was Deron Williams side-stepping a defender on the break for a bucket. A few possesions later, Chris Paul did the same with a stutter-step, spin move.
And when they came to the huddle after Paul's score for a timeout, there was Jason Kidd smiling and giving out a high five to Paul.
Williams and Paul, as expected, mostly shared the backcourt when Kidd took a breather against the Canadians, who did not qualify for Beijing.
Kidd is the senior member of this Olympic team but Williams and Paul might match Kidd's USA success — Kidd is undefeated in senior men's international play — by the time their own careers are over.
On the team that's going to Beijing, the way Wiliams and Paul can score may be their key contribution. Kidd has never been a prolific scorer, directing games in others way. But that may tempt opponents in China to lay off of Kidd to double Kobe Bryant or LeBron James or help on Dwight Howard.
Opponents will have to play more honestly if Paul and Williams are able to score and shoot like they did on Friday night. Paul scored 11 points with eights assists. Williams scored 14.
