NBA 2013-14: Predictions for the West All-Star starters at quarter way mark of the season
It’s been over a month since the NBA All-Star balloting 2014 tipped off on November 15th in a special event held in New Orleans. The first returns are out and so far there are no head scratchers.
For a second year in a row the fans can vote via social media networks such as Facebook and Twitter by selecting 10 unique players per day. The Balloting concludes on the 20th of January following which the starters of each conference will be announced on a one hour edition of NBA TIP OFF on TNT.
Not all fans look at the current performance and stats of all players, you can see what I mean in the first returns of the Ballot. Kobe Bryant played just 4 games during the period averaging only 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds per game yet the number of votes he has received are highest among players in the back court of the West and second highest behind Kevin Durant in terms of all Western Conference players on the ballot.
On the basis of their performance during the first quarter of the season, which players in the West deserve starter’s minutes during the All-Star game next year at New Orleans?
Let’s find out!
Backcourt:
Chris Paul (Los Angeles Clippers)
It goes without saying that this man is the best point guard in the league at present. Nobody will argue that.
He is the only player averaging a double double in points and assists with 19.8 and 11.3 per game respectively and with 13 he broke Magic Johnson’s record of most consecutive double doubles recorded to start the season by 2. Most of his stats are at a personal best since he moved to L.A.
He averages a mere 2.5 turnovers per game while creating numerous opportunities for his teammates. He can also be credited for a majority of the monstrous alley oops you see Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan throw down.
While we talk about his incredible passing game, what goes unnoticed is his outstanding ability to create and make his own shot in situations his team needs him to deliver. He is having a MVP caliber season however injuries on the team and the Clippers inconsistent performances as a team as iced his MVP momentum.
Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
Thanks to the Ballot, we might just see Mr. Kobe Bryant returning to familiar territory come the All-Star weekend but having said there are many of you out there who would back me when I say he certainly doesn’t deserve it this season. If indeed he does make the starters line-up it would be purely based on his experience, popularity and legacy.
Getting back, keeping in mind the former OKC duo of James Harden and Russell Westbrook, I believe none are as entertaining to watch as Stephen Curry. His ability to knock down triples from over 35 feet, at an efficiency only his Warriors back court partner Klay Thompson can match, was on display last season.
Although his three point shooting has dropped to mediocre by his standards, it has only helped his overall game to grow. His scoring, shooting and distribution this season are all career highs. The duo of Paul and Curry are certainly the most exciting back court duo in the West.