As the NBA All-Star starters are set to be announced tonight, the buzz around Jalen Brunson’s candidacy is reaching a fever pitch. The New York Knicks guard has been making waves this season, and his potential to secure a starting spot in the All-Star game is a hot topic among fans and analysts alike.
Brunson’s journey to potential All-Star starter status has been impressive. In the latest fan voting returns, he sits in fourth place among Eastern Conference guards. While this puts him just outside the starting lineup, there’s still a chance for him to climb the ranks before the final tally.
The All-Star selection process has evolved over the years. It’s no longer just about fan votes. The current system weighs fan votes at 50%, with player and media votes each accounting for 25%. This change gives players like Brunson, who might not have the biggest fan bases but are respected by their peers and the media, a fighting chance.
Last year, Brunson finished tied for second overall in the guard category, despite being fifth in fan voting. He came in third in player voting and second in media voting, showcasing the respect he commands within the league and among basketball journalists.
This year, Brunson’s case for a starting spot is even stronger. The Knicks are currently sitting pretty at third in the Eastern Conference with a 29-16 record. Team success often plays a significant role in All-Star voting, and Brunson’s leadership has been crucial to New York’s impressive season.
Statistically, Brunson is having a stellar year. He’s putting up impressive numbers and has had several standout performances that catch the eye of voters. His ability to lead the Knicks to victory in high-pressure situations has not gone unnoticed.
The competition for the guard spots is fierce. Donovan Mitchell seems likely to secure one of the starting positions, leaving Brunson to compete with players like LaMelo Ball and Damian Lillard for the second spot. While Ball leads all East guards in fan voting, his team’s poor record might hurt his chances with players and media.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Jalen Brunson’s All-Star candidacy, tune into the Locked On Knicks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Knicks Podcast:
• Karl-Anthony Towns’ strong position for an All-Star starting spot
• The new All-Star Game format and its potential impact
• Analysis of Brunson’s statistical case compared to other guard candidates
