With the 2021-2022 NBA season almost halfway complete, the dominance of some teams and players is becoming perceivable. Therefore, it is high time we voted for our favorite players to be a part of the All-Star game, taking place in Cleveland on February 20th. Which players have performed well enough to deserve a spot among the best in the league?
Eastern Conference
Frontcourt
Joel Embiid
Despite all the problems the 76ers currently face, Joel Embiid is still able to be at the highest level in his career, averaging 26.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His performances are the main reason why they are playoff contenders.
Kevin Durant
With the absence of Kyrie Irving, the Brooklyn Nets had seemingly lost their “full potential”. Nevertheless, they have exceeded expectations, currently positioning themselves at the number two spot in the conference. A significant portion of this achievement is thanks to Kevin Durant, who is averaging 29.8 points, leading the league, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
The current NBA Champion and Finals MVP does not seem to slow the pace, dominating in the paint and improving both his mid-range and three-point shooting. Due to his 27.8 points, 11.6 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game, the Milwaukee Bucks are still in the championship contender conversation.
Guards
Trae Young
The Atlanta Hawks point guard has maintained consistency throughout this season, averaging 27.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 9.4 assists per game, already being the cornerstone of his team. Unfortunately, their record (16-19) is not high enough to clinch a playoff spot; therefore, that should be their number one priority moving forward.
DeMar DeRozan
His addition to the Chicago Bulls this season was a differentiating factor. He and Zach Lavine have led the Bulls back at the number 1 spot on the conference, with a record of 24-10. These results were not necessarily because of the individual performance improvement, 26.8 points, 4.6 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game, but because of the team chemistry boost.
Western Conference
Frontcourt
Paul George
Since Kawhi Leonard suffered from a right knee injury during game 4 of the Western Conference Semifinals last season, Paul George had more responsibility at the start of the 21-22 season. Amazingly, as the go-to player for the Clippers, he has not disappointed, averaging 24.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. Sadly, the recent UCL tear in his right elbow will have him sidelined for at least three to four weeks.
Nikola Jokić
The current NBA MVP has proved why he is worthy of the award, and this season is not the exception. While the win percentage of the Denver Nuggets can improve, they are still very likely to clinch a playoff spot, partially due to Nikola Jokic’s effective production, with 25.7 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game.
LeBron James
Surprisingly, LeBron James is still putting up numbers similar to his prime in his 19th season. Already being the oldest player to average 28.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per game, James’ stellar performances are not plausible to stop anytime soon. Let see whether the Los Angeles Lakers can compete in this year’s postseason.
Guards
Luka Dončić
Even though there was a performance decrease, he is still averaging 25.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. Providing that Dončić maintains these almost effortless, impressive performances, there is no doubt the Dallas Mavericks will compete for a playoff spot, or a play-in spot, for that matter.
Stephen Curry
Part of the Golden State Warriors’ fruitful yet unexpected season is thanks to Curry since the never-before-seen, unique shots alongside the playmaking and court-spacing abilities make a tremendous impact in their games. His stats sum all this up, as he averages 27.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game.
Hopefully, this year’s game will allow fans to watch these players with unmatched talent play together. With the All-star voting now open, you can also vote for your favorite ones on the official NBA website.
Sources: NBA.com, Basketball Reference, and ESPN.com
