Among his several varied accolades, Jokic leads the league in defensive rebounds, is the only non-guard in the top six in assists, and has 11 triple-doubles.
Durant, who is 35 years old, is shooting and scoring far better than he did in his career, even though he had already made 13 All-Star games.
And at 39, there’s LeBron. (His colleague Anthony Davis ought to be on this team as well, but he shouldn’t start in front of these three.) — Steve Aschburner
Although some fans may disagree, that’s okay, but this season should mark the end of Stephen Curry’s nine consecutive All-Star starts.
Because of Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic in particular, and because of the depth at his position out in the West.
Both are strong contenders for Kia MVP, essential to the goals of their teams, and a lot of fun to watch.
Backcourt
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
- Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
Frontcourt
- Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
- LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
- Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
After making the All-NBA First Team the previous season, Gilgeous-Alexander has developed, setting career highs in FG percentage, assists, steals, points, and rebounds.
With career-best numbers, Doncic is third in assists and second in scoring. With 15 points, 15 rebounds,
and 15 assists, Jokic is the lone player in the top 15 and leads the league in triple-doubles.
In addition to becoming the first-ever 20-time All-Star, James will have accomplished this feat in 20 straight years as a starter,
adding even another victory to his incredible struggle against aging. Regarding Durant, the group and teammates could shift, but the buckets never stop.
He leads in 3-point percentage (a career-high 47.7%) and ranks seventh in scoring. Hardest omission:
starting Anthony Edwards for the Wolves, who are currently leading the West. — Brian Martin
Backcourt
- Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Frontcourt
- Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
- Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers
- Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
In contrast to the East, the West’s strength lies in its backcourt.
Take a look at these players—De’Aaron Fox, Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, and Anthony Edwards—who were left off the roster.
However, Doncic and Gilgeous-Alexander deserve MVP honors, so those are the breaks. In the meanwhile, Durant and Davis above LeBron James?
Is that really how you handle an elderly person? Definitely a close call.
LeBron, at least, won MVP of the In-Season Tournament. He is competent. — Powell Shaun
Backcourt
- Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder
Frontcourt
- Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
- Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
- Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers
Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic were hastily written in ink, and Doncic’s stats and importance to his squad are indisputable.
Teams that win are entirely centered around those three people.Durant is one of three players who averages 28, 6, and 6 points each game while scoring points effectively.
Although Leonard hasn’t had the same offensive output, he has been just as effective, and the fourth-place Clippers have outperformed them by 17.2 points per 100 possessions when he is on the court.
When it comes time to cast the official ballot, Rudy Gobert, LeBron James, Paul George, and Anthony Davis will all be given another chance. — Schuhmann John
Backcourt
- Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma CIty Thunder
Frontcourt
- Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
- LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
- Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
Given how much better Doncic and Gilgeous-Alexander are playing than the other guards in the West, choosing the guards should be an easy decision.
Doncic helped Dallas win 13 games without Kyrie Irving, while Gilgeous-Alexander has helped OKC get close to the top of the Western Conference.
They ought to be chosen by consensus. Jokic, the reigning champion and two-time MVP, also falls within that group.
The more difficult areas are the wing spots. However, James, who is 39 years old, is expected to break the record for the most All-Star selections (20).
Durant, who is having one of his best shooting seasons and may have another 50-40-90 campaign, won’t be disregarded either. — Michael C. Wright
