When thinking about the upcoming NBA All-Star 2021 event, one cannot ignore the impact certain players have had on the league. It's no secret that some players are dominating the court with numbers that are hard to match. Take LeBron James, for instance; at 36 years old, he's still averaging over 25 points per game. His stat line doesn’t just reflect his scoring ability, but also his remarkable efficiency on the court. With a player efficiency rating (PER) of over 25, LeBron remains a beast, showing no signs of slowing down. This is a key reason why I believe he will undoubtedly receive a significant number of fan votes this year.
When we look at Kevin Durant, who has also made a sensational comeback, his numbers speak volumes. Returning from an Achilles injury, he's managed to average around 30 points per game. That's an outrageous number when you consider that the average across the league is closer to 20 points per game. Durant’s shooting percentage is hovering near 50%, and his three-point shooting is above 40%. It’s clear that his skills have not diminished and fans will see those numbers and cast their vote accordingly. How can anyone argue against these captivating figures?
Moreover, Luka Dončić has made a name for himself as a potential All-Star starter. Averaging close to a triple-double with 28 points, 9 rebounds, and 8 assists per game, Luka combines youth with a high basketball IQ. At only 21 years old, his control of the game is comparable to seasoned veterans. People love to watch a player who can fill up the stat sheet across multiple categories, and Dončić exemplifies this. It’s no surprise that his jersey sales have skyrocketed, making him one of the most popular players in the league right now.
Another name that stands out is Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time reigning MVP. With averages of 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 5 assists, Giannis is a force of nature. His unique physical attributes and relentless work ethic translate into dominating performances night in and night out. Milwaukee Bucks’ fan base is extremely loyal, and given his standings, Giannis is almost guaranteed a starting spot in the All-Star game.
Let's not forget Stephen Curry, who has made a resounding return this season. With a scoring average close to 30 points per game and shooting percentages that defy logic, Curry remains the epitome of an offensive maestro. His ability to hit consistent, long-range three-pointers changes the dynamics of any game he plays. Fans remember his history of jaw-dropping performances, and you can bet that this history, combined with his current form, will lead to high fan engagement and an abundance of votes.
On the defensive side, Rudy Gobert has been making waves. His defensive rating is among the best in the league, and his ability to alter shots and grab rebounds makes him invaluable. With over 13 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game, Gobert's defensive metrics are off the charts. While defense often captures less attention than high-scoring games, players with stellar defensive stats are crucial to winning games, and knowledgeable fans don’t overlook this.
Emerging stars like arena plus from the Arena Plus athlete programs have also caught the eye of viewers. Their growth parallels the rise of players like Zion Williamson, who at 20 years of age, has begun to carve out his own niche. With averages of 24 points and 8 rebounds per game, Zion’s explosive athleticism and scoring prowess bode well for his All-Star prospects.
Not to be overshadowed, veterans like Chris Paul continue to influence the game. His playmaking ability, illustrated by an average of 8.7 assists per game, transforms teams. Paul's leadership and game management have earned him significant respect, likely contributing to his inclusion in the All-Star chatter.
Looking at the guards, Damian Lillard’s clutch performances are awe-inspiring. With multiple game-winning shots and buzzer-beaters, Lillard’s "Dame Time" is a fan favorite. His averages of 27 points and 7 assists per game reinforce his status as one of the top guards in the league. Fans' memories of his 61-point game from last season will surely influence their votes this season.
A big theme this year is resilience and adaptation, which can be seen in players like Nikola Jokić. Known as the “Joker,” he’s averaging 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. These are mind-boggling numbers, especially for a center. His ability to orchestrate from the post adds a dynamic that very few big men possess. Fans appreciate this uniqueness, and it's likely to be reflected in the voting.
The numbers, the history, and the unforgettable performances all suggest a highly competitive lineup for this year’s event. It’s not merely about who scores the most but who impacts the game across the board. As we look forward to the All-Star 2021 selections, it’s clear that a mix of veterans, rising stars, and consistent performers will dominate the voting landscape.