The announcement for the 2023 NBA All-Star starters has received mixed opinions from a lot of people. While most things ended up working out the way they were anticipated, there were some controversial inclusions.
Joel Embiid missing out on the Eastern Conference starters’ spot has generated the most discussion but another decision that’s been criticized is the inclusion of Zion Williamson over consistent stars like Domantas Sabonis and Lauri Markkanen.
Charles Barkley openly aired his grievance against Zion being selected, who’s only played 29 of the Pelicans’ 49 games so far this season.
Do you agree with Charles Barkley wanting Sabonis or Lauri in over Zion?
https://t.co/WDnfFDWIWd
— The Game Day Hoops (@TheGameDayHoops) January 27, 2023
“I hope he doesn’t take this the wrong way but he’s missed too many games in my opinion. I would have went with (Domantas) Sabonis or (Lauri) Markkanen. I don’t think you can miss 20 games in the first half of the season, I just don’t think that’s fair.”
Sabonis and Markkanen probably should’ve been recognized for what they’re doing but it’s incredibly hard to use skill and outweigh the current system voting, which means the chances of them getting this spot was going to be a massive challenge.
Did Zion Williamson Deserve His Spot?
When you discuss the impact Zion Williamson has had on his team as compared to Markkanen or Sabonis on theirs, it’s extremely hard to make a convincing case for Zion. The Pelicans have proven they’re a playoff-caliber team even without him on the court and that’s why they were among the best in the league when Zion was healthy. He is averaging 26.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.6 assists when he plays.
Lauri Markkanen is averaging 24.8 points and 8.7 rebounds and leading a Utah Jazz team everybody thought would be lottery fodder to a possible playoff spot. Domantas Sabonis looks destined to be the star man of the first Sacramento Kings team to make the playoffs in 16 years, an incredible achievement, averaging 18.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 7.3 assists.
Zion also being respected by the players for the starter’s spot and barely missing out on the fan vote meant that he was a lock to get this start. When he’s played, he’s earned it.
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