All-Star Weekend Analysis
Adu Reghuram
Just like that, the All-Star weekend comes to a close. With the immense amount of flashy passes to the deafening roars from the crowd, did the All-Star games really fulfill expectations? For the past couple of weeks, I have been filling you guys in on All-Star news regarding votes and rules. All-star weekend including the three-point, dunk, and skills competitions have always had a warm spot in my heart, but something felt off. Back in 2016, we may have witnessed one of the most famous dunk competitions of all time since the Vince Carter days.
The outstanding talent and athleticism that these once-in-a-generation talents showcased were unbelievable. Players including Zach Lavine, Aaron Gordon, and even Derrick Jones made their debut, but now we have players like Jericho Sins who is not a well-known NBA player, disappointing fans.
Many people believe that LeBron James was a huge reason for superstars to opt-out. LeBron James opted out of the dunk contest in the year 2010. Keeping in mind that LeBron James is a multi-generation talent who just broke the scoring record, it is safe to say he definitely has a voice. Sports analyst Stephen A. Smith claims, “The superstars are what All-Star weekend is all about. Where were the superstars in the dunk contest?” He also states, “There is one blemish that should be on LeBron James’ career. He has ruined the Slam Dunk contest.”
We have seen superstars such as Ja Morant this season not only improve but improve exponentially athletically. He also opted out of the dunk contest. Did LeBron James have an effect on this? Regardless of the competition, we can not discredit Mac McClung for how he performed. Sports analysts say he has “saved the dunk contest.” This is a huge claim as Mac has only played two games this season. Mac McClung was a G-league MVP, can his talents carry over to the NBA?
Welcome back to another weekly update in which I relay information regarding the National Basketball Association. Two weeks ago, we discussed the Kyrie Irving trade. This week we will talk about Kevin Durant's trade, Russell Westbrook’s trade, and conclude with matchups of the week.
Kevin Durant To The Suns!
All-NBA forward Kevin Durant was traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Phoenix Suns for a package that included dynamic forward Mikal Bridges, Cam Johnson, Jae Crowder, and four unprotected future first-round picks. Kevin Durant is one of the most talented scorers of all time. Though he has won multiple rings in the past, will it be considered a “flop” if he does not meet expectations with the Suns?
Russell Westbrook To The Clippers!
A new chapter begins for Westbrook as he starts his journey with the Clippers. Westbrook is an intriguing case study for the Clippers ahead of the playoff push. On one hand, he is a future Hall of Famer who used to average triple-doubles. On the other hand, the 34-year-old has definitely lost a step of explosiveness that defined his game for so long. An athletic force who could space the floor and was dangerous on the perimeter and interior turned into a point guard who barely starts. Can Westbrook improve his role with the Clippers?
Key Match-Ups!
Warriors Vs. Lakers - 2/23
Grizzlies Vs. 76ers - 2/23
Heat Vs. Bucks - 2/24
Celtics Vs. 76ers - 2/25
Suns Vs. Bucks - 2/26
