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The NBA’s biggest stars will take their talents to Chicago for the 69th NBA All-Star game. It is looking like LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo will captain the two teams just like last year, but who will make the All-Star draft?
As the All-Star game is a showcase for the best talents in the NBA there are some players who are certain to be a part of the All-Star weekend such as LeBron, Giannis, Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis and James Harden. Outside of these shoe-ins who could be ready for their first ever All-Star appearance?
Donovan Mitchell
The 2018 Slam Dunk Contest winner has been an integral part of the Utah Jazz’s offence this year. His high athletic approach to basketball would definitely suit the All-Star game making his appearance a sight to behold. He has certainly come of age this year and is worthy of making his first All-Star appearance. He could be helped by the increasing globalisation of the game, the way he plays basketball will be certain to help engage with new markets the NBA is looking to target.
What do his numbers say?
Spida Mitchell has put up an impressive stat line so far this year averaging just over 24 points as the primary scoring option. His consistent output has seen the Utah Jazz climb up to second in a loaded Western Conference, staking a big claim as to why he should be a part of this year’s All-Star game.
Luka Dončić
Last season the Slovenian was snubbed of a debut All-Star appearance in his rookie year and had to settle for playing in the Rising Stars game. Had Doncic made it into the All-Star he would have become the first rookie to do so since Blake Griffin in 2011. It is thought that NBA officials didn’t allow Luka to play in the All-Star game as it would diminish the reputation and need for the Rising Stars game.
What do his numbers say?
The 2018/19 Rookie of the Year has increased his production from last season averaging 29 points, 9.7 rebounds and 9 assists so far this season. With Luka almost averaging a 30-point triple-double for the season it is clear to see why he is more than worthy of making the All-Star roster. His outstanding second season has seen many people within the game compare Dončić to players like LeBron James and Magic Johnson.
Pascal Siakam
Last seasons Most Improved Player has shown he is not just a one-season wonder. The 25-year-old Power Forward has shown clear signs of progression throughout the last two seasons culminating in Siakam playing a vital part in the Raptors NBA Championship win last year. The Toronto Raptors without Kwahi are clearly not as strong as last season but with Siakam’s continued production they could have a good shot at reaching the conference finals.
What do his numbers say?
As for his stat-line this season, Kawhi leaving Toronto has allowed Siakam to see much more of the ball. With this higher usage, he has improved on last seasons’ point-scoring, averaging 24.7 per night. This additional scoring has not impacted his overall game as Siakam is averaging more assists and rebounds. By far this would be the most wholesome story surrounding the All-Star weekend should Siakam make the draft.
Trae Young
The shining light in what so far has been a dismal season for the Hawks. Although Trae Young’s numbers have shown a clear sign of his breakout season the Hawks sit bottom of the Eastern Conference with a record of 9-32. The Hawks awful record could hinder the chances of Trae making the All-Star game as players with a similar output have a much better team record.
What do his numbers say?
With the range of shooting Young possesses it would be great to see him play alongside better players in the All-Star game. With 29.1 points and 8.5 assists a night it is clear he has the ability to create and facilitate and in the exhibition style of the All-Star game. Ice Trae is sure to get fans off their seats.
Jayson Tatum
As Jayson Tatum enters his third year in the NBA, he is expected to establish himself as one of the league’s best forwards.
With the ball dominant Kyrie Irving leaving for Brooklyn in the offseason, Tatum has been given a much bigger role this year in Boston’s offence. The young forward has significantly increased his production this year without Kyrie in town. When this is coupled with a seemingly depleted Eastern frontcourt it could be the year Jayson Tatum makes his All-Star debut. The East only has two Frontcourt players guaranteed to be in the All-Star game (Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo). Tatum could make the game on default.
What do his numbers say?
His entire output has increased with his points taking a huge jump from 15.7 last year to 21.3 this year. Along with his increased numbers comes a solid team record which currently sees the Celtics sat second in the Eastern Conference, it could present Tatum with an excellent opportunity to make his debut All-Star appearance.
