The NBA All-Star Game selection process incites one of the main debates every season because every fan has their own opinion and biases on who should be selected in the 24 prestigious spots. This could arguably be the hardest year to fill up the ballot because a plethora of possible players have missed a slew of games already. Other voters could take into account the missed games, but there are talented players who may miss out on their slot.
From the Western Conference selections, their conference has decreased in their performance because of injuries to superstars like Kawhi Leonard, Anthony Davis, and Paul George. The Eastern Conference has drastically improved as well, but there are still numerous individuals from the West that are incredibly skillful with some of them being left in the first of NBA All-Star voting.
Kristaps Porzingis has always been the main topic in harsh criticism from media and fans because his production has dwindled down from his tenure in the New York Knicks. Moreover, there are instances wherein he looks disinterested especially in the defensive end of the court. Even in the midst of all the hate, Porzingis is averaging 20.6 points, 8 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game.
There were games wherein he would carry and catapult the Mavericks to critical victories when they were missing Luka Doncic. Porzingis has increased his free throw attempts to 5.3 this season compared to 3.2 last year. It is a tremendous indicator that he is being more aggressive in attacking the rim. With these aforementioned numbers, it is evident that he is having a better season than some front court players like Andrew Wiggins and Carmelo Anthony.
Dejounte Murray
The San Antonio Spurs are always going to be one of the teams that has limited exposure in the national media, especially with the current composition of their roster. For the basketball nerds and League Pass fanatics, Dejounte Murray has quietly been in the top-tier of two-way guards this season – and arguably an NBA All-Star.
As the gradual progression is seen on his fifth year in the association, Murray is tallying numbers 18 points, 8.4 boards, and 8.9 dish-offs a game. He is the commendable leader of the Spurs squad that has no expectations this year, but they are still in serious consideration of claiming a play-in spot. Gregg Popovich also finds a way to work his magic, but it is Murray who sets the example and galvanizes his troops to try and win every game. It could seem controversial, but it is likely for Murray to make it to the midyear classic over Damian Lillard or Russell Westbrook.
Two seasons ago, Brandon Ingram was selected to his first NBA All-Star game already with the New Orleans Pelicans. With the major injury to Zion Williamson, he is the person that is tasked to be the primary ball handler of New Orleans, and he has been delivering as he is recording 22.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5 assists per game.
Similar to Murray, Ingram's personality and style of play is not as exciting, but their numbers speak for themselves. It seems unlikely for Ingram to make his second appearance, but he must still be in consideration for a top-10 spot in the front court of the West. His numbers have been phenomenal, but the issue for him is the Pelicans are nowhere close to serious playoff contention in the West.
The voting for the February classic is a never-ending discussion, but these are some names that should be considered for this prominent match. They may not make it due to the preference of coaches for the reserves, but it does not seem right to not even have them in the top 10 in their position. There are some players that do get considered solely through fan voting, but coaches must still choose objectively and select the ones that deserve it.
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