Anthony Davis, who was selected as a reserve for the upcoming NBA All-Star Game, is widely expected to miss this year’s festivities down in Atlanta, so who are the best options to replace him?
Devin Booker
The guard’s scoring and assist numbers are down a little bit from last season, but much of that has to do with the arrival of Chris Paul. It’s also worth noting that Booker’s shooting percentages are slightly up this season. The Phoenix Suns are currently in fourth place in the Western Conference, so that could very well strengthen the case for the Kentucky product to make his second straight All-Star Game.
Brandon Ingram
Ingram’s numbers are pretty much identical to what they were last season, but with Zion Williamson establishing himself as the man for the New Orleans Pelicans, that ultimately set him up to be the guy who represents the team this year in Atlanta. The Pelicans haven’t established themselves as a playoff threat quite yet, so that will likely be taken into consideration for Ingram’s candidacy this season.
Ja Morant
The reigning Rookie of the Year has looked great this season, but he’s only been able to suit up in 19 of 27 games so far for the Memphis Grizzlies, as a very tough ankle sprain held him out for over two weeks of action. Morant is a rising superstar and will almost certainly be a regular in those games soon enough, but he’s not likely to be in this season.
DeMar DeRozan
DeRozan’s scoring numbers are down considerably this season, but him taking a lesser role as a scorer and more as a playmaker has opened up opportunities for other guys on the San Antonio Spurs to take on a bigger role, and that’s a huge reason why the Spurs have surprised many people this season and are in the midst of the playoff picture out West.
Mike Conley
Conley is widely considered as the best player to never make an All-Star Game, and with his past success with the Memphis Grizzlies, there is a strong case to be made for that. However, Conley is currently thriving in his role with the Utah Jazz, as they currently boast the best record in the league. Is this the season to finally reward him with a spot in the All-Star Game?
