I really think that Rondo's lack of participation in USA basketball has really hurt his game. He could have learned a lot working out with the best, but we all know he's too stubborn for that.
http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052970203897404578076793880988504
It really wasn't his fault though. He did participate, started a few exhibition games, but then he started losing ground to the other PGs and eventually withdrew to save face from being cut from the squad.
Well, I don't think Rondo was ever that interested which resulted in his lackluster performance (we all know in Boston how unimpressive Rondo can look when he doesn't care).
In response to the comments that it didn't hurt his game: I was just pointing out Thibs for Smart sake, not a reference to Rondo. For Rondo's sake, he missed out on a great chance to learn from Lebron, Melo, Wade, and crew; I saw a real improvement in their games after the USA summers and I think Rondo would have greatly benefited. I mean, do you really think that he wouldn't benefit by being around and practicing with the leagues top players instead of going on vacation and working out with just coaches?
You have a chance to essential be on a all-star team that practices and competes long term versus 1 weekend. If you watch the behind the scenes video from this USA basketball team, you can see Kyrie sharing the different backboard drills he uses to practice making layups in traffic. That is only one example, but clearly there is much to be learned from all the players-- even if it's just to see what other's player routines are.
Also, you have Harden, Durant, and George, practicing and going at each other every day. They're certainly going to improve as a result.
http://youtu.be/C6unPpOKsiM?list=UUBo3XgAVBeE74Zw0T77aDhw