The NBA All-star Game is the time for basketball fans to see their favorite athletes play together as a team. The voting for All-star players has officially opened on Thursday. Now, we'll give you details about how to vote and comprehensive analysis of potential nominees.
NBA fans can vote in several ways, such as tweeting with player's name with the hashtag #NBAVOTE and voting directly at 2016 All-star website. Also, keep in mind that voting is limited for one player per avenue.
Voting will close at 11:59 p.m., Eastern on Monday, January 18th. The league will give voting updates on December 25th, January 7th, and January 14th.
For All-star predictions, here is the list of players, courtesy of Sports Illustrated, poised to earn tickets for the exhibition game.
In the East team, last year's All-stars Paul George and Kevin Love are set to return to the showcase after missing out last season. In the West team, Kobe Bryant threatens to occupy the guard lineup. He also announced his retirement earlier this month, so fans might consider him playing. Also, aging stars Dirk Nowitzki and Tim Duncan have produced good numbers every night to play for another year.
Furthermore, new blood like Andrew Wiggins and Kristaps Porzingis could still have a slot for All-Stars exhibition. LaMarcus Aldridge's numbers have taken a significant step back in San Antonio, leaving room for other big players to join the game. Also, John Wall and Damian Lillard are playing for teams that have slipped in the standings compared to last year.
Sports analysts said Leonard of San Antonio Spurs has a great chance to play for Western All-stars team. Sports Illustrated tabbed the Spurs forward as a top-three MVP candidate and the Defensive Player of the Year through the first quarter of the 2015-16 season.
Leonard also belonged at the top of statistical leaders. He averages more than 20 points and 7 rebounds a game.
The outspoken forward is arguably the biggest winner for the extra attention that Warriors got from its perfect 23-0 start. Green is no longer regarded as a bench player who had very limited minutes on the floor.
The "6'7" forward can protect the rim, position himself effectively under the basket and shoot threes. His versatility and high basketball IQ can make him one of the league's most complete players and toughest matchups.
The towering center of Piston could d become Detroit's first All-Star since Allen Iverson in 2009. He is now the NBA's leading rebounder. He can pull down rebounds at a Dennis Rodman-like rate. Over the years, he also developed his skills as a scorer. His outstanding performance can make him a strong contender for East All-star's center.
