The Eastern Conference as a whole hasn’t been strong in many years. This year’s conference may be one of the weakest in recent NBA history. From a distance, the power of this conference may only come from the Miami Heat and the Indiana Pacers. However, this doesn’t mean that these two teams are the only ones with talented players. There are many bright spots in this conference.
As the NBA All-Star break approaches, many fans will see that the East is more than the two previously mentioned teams. Let’s take a look at the Eastern Conference players that will most likely get a starting spot in the annual All-Star Game.
NOTE: Keep in mind that the NBA has a new voting system. There are no longer specific positions. Votes can only be cast for frontcourt and backcourt.
Frontcourt: If the polls stand as is, the starting frontcourt will be: LeBron James, Paul George and Carmelo Anthony.
There’s no dispute to LeBron James starting in the All-Star game. Even with lower numbers than last year, the reigning MVP still has a dominant presence.
Early reports say he will start at what would be the center position. Paul George is one reason the Pacers are first in points allowed at 88.6 points per game. He’s averaging 6.1 rebounds and 23.2 points. Look for his defensive presence to compliment his teammates.
Although the Knicks are struggling, Carmelo is not. The forward averages 8.8 rebounds and 26 points per game. The only thing that can keep Melo out of this game would be if his ankle is worse than expected. As there are over 200,000 votes separating Carmelo and the next person in the polls (Roy Hibbert), these should be the results.
Backcourt: The current polls have Dwayne Wade and Kyrie Irving as the starting guards for the East.
Dwayne’s numbers may not be as high as they have been in the past but he’s still worthy of an all-star position. Averaging 19.4 points per game and 4.8 assists, Wade will work in tandem with Kyrie for an exciting backcourt display.
Kyrie Irving is breaking his career highs in points per game and assists this season. He’s standing tall on the sinking ship known as Cleveland Cavaliers.
John Wall has had a great season but not enough to gain all-star votes. The unfortunate injuries to Rajon Rondo and Derrick Rose have made backcourt voting nothing more than a formality.
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