The NBA Rising Stars Challenge is a marquee game for the NBA's rookies and sophomores. The exclusive game will be televised during the NBA All-Star Break. Usually, these games are competitive and feature the NBA's brightest stars going head to head, so the players often look like superstars. Nonetheless, some players already have their bets on who will claim the MVP of the Rising Stars game. According to Jordan Clarkson, Kyle Kuzma will be going home with MVP honors.
https://twitter.com/JordanClarksons/status/956333212183101440
Kuzma is an excellent choice. He is currently averaging 16.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists. He is the leading scorer of the Los Angeles Lakers, and is arguably their most talented rookie. Although Lonzo Ball was supposed to be the Lakers' crown jewel this season, Kuzma has stepped up in a brilliant way, playing like an established veteran for most chunks of the season. In fact, Kuzma scored 28 points in a decisive victory over the Boston Celtics on Tuesday night. He just may be a factor in the Rising Stars game in February as well.
Of course, Justin Anderson had his own pick on who would win Rising Stars MVP. He chose Ben Simmons.
Got my dog @BenSimmons25 … whaddup! https://t.co/GR7aGq0LXu
— Justin Anderson (@JusAnderson1) January 25, 2018
Simmons is averaging 16.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.4 assists for the 76ers. His versatile, all-around play has made him a franchise cornerstone for the Sixers this year. Simmons may not be the explosive scorer Kuzma is, but he can dominate the game without scoring. Summons is an adept passer and rebounder, and he knows when to make the right play for his teammates. Therefore, Anderson's choice isn't a bad one at all.
Both players are two of the best rookies in the NBA. However, there can only be one MVP of the Rising Stars game.
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