Earlier this week, the NBA announced the 10 starters for the 2021 All-Star Game, which will take place in Atlanta on March 7. As always, there was a lot of debate about whether the right players had been selected – particularly regarding the Western Conference backcourt.
The two guards who got the nod were Steph Curry and Luka Doncic, although many believe Damian Lillard deserved a spot. And in fact, he almost did. Doncic and Lillard were right after the full voting process, including input from fans, media, and players, and the Mavericks star only got started because he won the tiebreaker that was based on the fans’ vote.
Now, a few days later, Doncic has looked into the situation. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Doncic admitted he was surprised to be named a starter, thinking Lillard might have been the most deserved choice.
“I didn’t expect to start this game,” Doncic said“I know maybe [Damian] Lillard deserved it more than I did. ‘
That was kind of Doncic to say, but he really doesn’t need to apologize. He had nothing to say about the trial and is working on an absolutely brilliant season. In 29 games he scores an average of 29.1 points, 8.6 rebounds and 9.4 assists. He is fifth in the league in scoring, third in assists and getting top marks for his career in both categories. If that doesn’t deserve starting the All-Star Game, then what does?
Unfortunately, it is simply a difficult situation where there are more candidates than there are places available. Lillard herself spins 29.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and 7.7 assists on a night basis, and has the Trail Blazers in fourth place in the Western Conference. Of course, that deserves a starting place too, but only two players can receive that honor, which is why there is a voting process to make the final decision. This time it just didn’t go like Lillard.
The good news for the Blazers star man is that he will definitely go to the game, and in the long run, no one really remembers whether you started, whether you were there or not. And he will be there.