The Eastern Conference has some pretty good players in the running for All-Star starters. With the likes of Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and more, the East has some talented players that could represent the conference in the All-Star game. But don’t sleep on the West.
The Western Conference has a great group of players that can make the All-Star game. There are several guards to choose from, but only two can be starters. Then, the West also has some pretty good frontcourt players that all have good chances of becoming starters. So, who do you pick?
Here are five Western Conference players that could be named All-Star starters.
1.) Steph Curry
Steph Curry’s name has come up a lot this season. He’s an early MVP candidate, he became the all-time leader in 3-pointers, and the Warriors have the best record in the league.
Curry isn’t a stranger to the All-Star game. He is a seven-time All-Star that made every game from 2014 to 2019. Curry missed the 2020 game but returned to the festivities in 2021. He finished the game with 28 points.
Curry is one of the most popular players in the league, and as fans continue to vote, he’ll likely become a starter.
2.) Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic is a player that does a little of everything. Standing at 6-foot-7, Doncic can pass like a (small) point guard, rebound, and score when his team needs it. Doncic is must-see basketball, and in his young career, he’s already accomplished great things.
Doncic was Rookie of the Year in 2019, he was the youngest player to record a triple-double (before LaMelo Ball), and he is already a two-time All-Star.
The West is stacked with guards, but it is safe to say Curry and Doncic are the frontrunners.
3.) LeBron James
LeBron James is a 19-year veteran that has made the All-Star game since 2005. Need I say more?
James is always named an All-Star starter, and this year won’t be any different.
Are the Lakers struggling this season? Yes, they are. But despite their struggles, James is having yet another incredible season. He averages 27.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, 6.7 assists and 1.7 steals. Those are All-Star numbers.
Regardless of his age and the Lakers’ performance this season, James is having a season worthy of All-Star considerations. And I’m sure fans would agree.
4.) Nikola Jokic
Nikola Jokic is one of the league’s best and most unique centers. He can score in the post, but he also has the passing ability of a guard. Jokic is more than capable of getting triple-doubles, and he nearly averages one this season. He averages 25.8 points, 14.0 rebounds and 7.1 assists.
Jokic, who is also the reigning MVP, is a three-time All-Star. While he didn’t start in his first two appearances, he was finally named a starter in the 2021 game. If everything goes right, he will likely be a starter this year.
5.) Paul George
Before his recent injury, Paul George was having a solid season. He’s averaging 24.7 points, 7.1 rebounds and 5.5 assists.
George is taking on scoring duties as the Los Angeles Clippers are playing without Kawhi Leonard. And, he’s stepped up to the plate.
The Clippers are staying afloat in the playoff race, and George is key to that. He deserves not only to be an All-Star but a starter.
The Western Conference has so many talented players. And while these players won’t necessarily end up on the same team, it will be good to see them named starters.