Voting for the NBA 2020 All-Star Game has opened up and let’s examine who should be voted in for the Eastern Conference.
Backcourt Selections
Ben Simmons , Philadelphia 76ers
Bradley Beal , Washington Wizards
There are many permutations to consider when parsing through the top guards in the East. Where would the Pacers be without Malcolm Brogdon? Should we throw Kemba Walker in here for reviving the Celtics? Do either Kyle Lowry or Fred VanVleet deserve consideration for helping to keep the Raptors afloat? Can we recognize Devonte’ Graham‘s breakout as legit?
Ultimately, Ben Simmons and Bradley Beal get the nod here, though both candidacies have their flaws. Simmons’ raw stats could be more impressive; Beal could be more efficient. But the circumstances surrounding each player matter in addition to the stats. Simmons’ defensive prowess has been on display. Beal has showcased his ability as a first-option scorer (28.2 PPG) and top facilitator (7.0 APG) despite having defenses key on him nearly every game.
Frontcourt Selections
Giannis Antetokounmpo , Milwaukee Bucks
Jimmy Butler , Miami Heat
Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers
Giannis leads the league in TPA and is the front-runner to win the MVP award again. Embiid is having another dominant season, and he’s only missed six games so far.
Butler’s debut season in Miami has gone as well as anyone had hoped. The 30-year-old wing is averaging a career-high in assists, doling out nearly twice as many setups (6.8 per game) as his career average (3.6). His advanced stats are rather impressive as well. Out of all Eastern Conference players, Butler sits third in TPA, second in plus/minus and third in VORP. He’s lifted the team statistically, all while being a consummate teammate.
Giving Butler the nod over Pascal Siakam was not an easy decision. If this were All-NBA, I might have slotted Butler as a guard (he’s expected to be a G/F on that ballet) and given Siakam the last forward slot. However, the power forward has no timetable to return from his groin injury. That, coupled with his dip in efficiency this season, cost Siakam a starting spot.
