There were a number of notable snubs from this year's All-Star Game. Utah Jazz head coach Quin Snyder did not mince words when it came to center Rudy Gobert being left out.
Although Utah has struggled at times, Gobert has put together an All-Star-caliber season thus far. According to ESPN's Tim McMahon, Snyder feels the entire voting system is flawed:
“Rudy Gobert should absolutely be an All-Star. He's one of the most impactful players in the league. This is clear, not subjective, and shows the All-Star system is flawed. We talk about defense being valued, but when we have an opportunity to reward it, we reward scoring again and again. Rudy is the best defensive player in the league and an offensive force when you consider his screening, his finishing and the spacing he creates with his presence.”
Snyder's frustrations are certainly understandable. Furthermore, there is plenty of truth to his reasoning behind Gobert's candidacy as an All-Star. Unfortunately, it appears a good portion of the rest of the league does not feel the same way.
Gobert is currently averaging 15 points and 12.8 rebounds per game this season. He also leads the league in win shares (8.9) and field goal percentage (.650) thus far. Meanwhile, his 2.2 blocks per game have been an integral part of this elite Jazz defense.
It should also be noted that Utah currently holds the seventh spot in the powerhouse Western Conference. There is no question that Gobert has all the credentials of an All-Star. Unfortunately, he will be forced to watch this year's festivities from home barring injury.
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