Kyle Parikh ’18, Business and Ad/Circulation Manager
The NBA All-Star game is a grand event that is enjoyed by many basketball fans; the stadiums are packed and there are an average of 7.8 million people watching on their TVs at home each year. In 2018, the All-Star game is expected to have even more eyes on their screens, as the game is hosted in Los Angeles, CA. With all of the excitement surrounding the event, many fans find it fun to make their own projections about the All-Star weekend in anticipation.
A survey was taken by the Lions’ Roar staff to find out what the most likely scenarios are. For example, Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors was voted most likely to win the three-point contest. Thompson’s sure shooting during games is enough evidence to make people confident in Thompson’s ability. Rookies Donovan Mitchell of the Utah Jazz and Dennis Smith Jr. of the Dallas Mavericks are tied as the favorites to win the dunk contest. The voters argue that Aaron Gordon would come out as the victor if he were to be free of injuries. Senior Nik Bauer said, “Aaron Gordon was robbed of the trophy in 2016 and 2017; this would have been his redemption year.”
The team selections for the main event were done differently this year, instead of players being locked into their conferences after being voted in, teams are now chosen by team captains. This year, Warriors guard Wardell Stephen Curry II and LeBron James of the Cleveland Cavaliers will be the captains who will choose their teams in a draft format, just like a pickup game. Unfortunately, the draft was held secretly in order to save the last pick from controversy. Senior David Willacker said, “I think the snake himself, Kevin Durant (Golden State Warriors,) was the first pick.” Senior Noah Grimes said, “If I am being honest, the last pick was probably Al Horford (Boston Celtics) or Kevin Love(Cleveland Cavaliers.)”
This season has been plagued by injuries to top level players. The list includes All-Star talents such as New Orleans Pelicans center Demarcus Cousins, John Wall of the Washington Wizards, Kevin Love from the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Kristaps Porzingis of the New York Knicks just to name a few. The injuries suffered by these players has however paved the way for Pistons’ center Andre Drummond to take part in the game. Senior Sam DeFrank said, “The injuries suck, but at least Drummond gets to be an All-Star.”
Photo courtesy of comc.com
Lyon Life 