NBA 2009 All-Stars Have Been Named: Who Deserved It and Who Got Snubbed?

Firstly, let’s start with THE EAST … 

On the Eastern side of things, we saw all THREE debutantes in Nelson, Granger and Harris. A bit surprising since all are in the middle of their breakout seasosn, especially Harris and Nelson (Granger was pretty good last year but has still improved a great deal). The bottom line, however, is that all three DESERVED their allstar selections.

The rest of the east was pretty expected with Rashard Lewis being the only member chosen by the coaches which I thought was a bit undeserved. Now don’t get me wrong Rashard is playing bball at a very high level and we’re seeing numbers reminiscient of what he put up as a Super Sonic which led to his rise to stardom.

Furthermore, after last year’s dismal season (by my accounts) I think he’s made very big steps in showcasing his value to the Magics organization and fans. However, his numbers don’t light up the board enough to be playing in such a showcase.

Allen Iverson’s selection was obviously the MOST UNDESERVED, however, seeing he was actually voted in by the fans then I have no right to argue, they choose what they want to see.

SNUBS on the EAST:

Mike Bibby - definitely deserved a nod due to the way he’s provided that extra uumph the Hawks needed to become a contender in the East.

Vince Carter - he may not be able to jump as high or as much but he still can light it up on any given day…plus his numbers don’t lie (maybe if the nets had a better record he would have made it).

Andre Iguodala

Tashaun Prince - this is more because of my view that a player which is undoubtedly the most valuable on his team though his numbers may not show this.

David Lee - maybe next year but the kid can play.

THE WEST

NO FIRST TIMERS…NOT SURPRISED. The ONLY problem with the roster chosen was DAVID WEST. Yeah, 20 ppg, 7 rpg looks pretty good on a stat sheet but he really hasn't provided any "sting" for the hornets.

Can’t really say “Snubs” since the lineup was a pretty deserved one but there were a number of surprise absentees:

Steve Nash

Carmelo Anthony (no excuse for him not being on…definitely should have made it over DAVID WEST).

Al Jefferson (not really “surprising” per se but…)

The Utah Twins…Carlos “C-Bo” Boozer and Deron Williams (…obviously only the injuries kept these two BEASTS off the roster).

KEVIN DURANT - if only this guy did not play for such a horrendous team but my God has this kid improved in terms of bball IQ and rebounding skills.  BIG PROPS TO MR. DURANT …who in the world needs to be able to bench press 180 when u can play like this right? Mind over matter.