The Case for Klay Thompson to Make the All-Star Team
When it comes to All-Star reserves, overall team success is just as important as individual statistics.
The coaches that select the bench generally give players from winning teams a slight edge over good players on bad teams. As nice as it would be if Warriors fans found a way to vote Klay Thompson in as a starter, it’s much more realistic to include Thompson in the reserve conversation.
Stephen Curry‘s on-court dominance and off-court endeavors have propelled him to a stardom that, according to the latest voting returns, are second only to LeBron James. If Curry holds on, this will be his second consecutive All-Star start. It’s no surprise that Curry is leading all Western Conference players because he has arguably been the best player in the NBA this year.
But what about his Splash Brother? Does Thompson truly have a valid case for a spot on the Western Conference All-Star team?
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Simply put, yes. Thompson averages 21.0 points per game which puts him in third place amongst Western Conference shooting guards behind James Harden (27.2 pts) and Kobe Bryant (23.8 pts). His field goal percentage and three-point percentage (46%/43%) are much better than Harden’s (44%/36%) and Bryant’s (38%/29%).
Thompson is averaging career-highs in assists, steals, and blocks while also improving on last year’s rebounding numbers. Harden, another early MVP candidate alongside Curry, is clearly an All-Star; he’s been wonderful all year. Though Monta Ellis is surely in the running, it seems as if Thompson’s biggest threat at the shooting guard position is Bryant, the second highest vote-getter in the West behind Curry. Bryant averages more points, rebounds, and assists than Thompson; however, Golden State’s swingman is much more efficient. Additionally, Thompson has improved every aspect of his game this year proving he is more than just a three-point shooter; he’s becoming an exciting star that complements Curry beautifully.
As stated earlier, when there are two players with very comparable numbers fighting for one spot, the player on the better team will be awarded the roster spot most of the time. If Thompson finds himself in a stalemate with any other guard, it seems like he should have the advantage because, right now, no one is better than the Warriors.
Last year, the Western Conference team carried five guards (six if you include the injured Bryant who did not participate and was replaced by Anthony Davis): Curry, Harden, Chris Paul, Tony Parker, and Damian Lillard.
Barring any injuries, it’s safe to say Oklahoma City’s Russell Westbrook will replace Parker. Paul is almost a lock. Lillard makes a case, but it’s not a sure thing. In the guard heavy West (that recently got heavier with the Rajon Rondo trade), it’ll be interesting to see how the coaches choose to compose the team.
Furthermore, Kevin Durant has struggled to stay healthy this season and it doesn’t seem like too much of a stretch to suggest he could pass on the All-Star Game this year like he passed on Team USA during the summer. Thompson’s length and defensive ability give coaches the flexibility to also play him at the small forward position.
Ultimately, it’s a tough call. Thompson is very worthy, but so are plenty of other guards in the conference. If Harden manages to catch Bryant in votes, then I believe the Splash Bro’s chances increase because I don’t know if the coaches will select Bryant. Sure, he has a legendary reputation and career, but his lack of efficiency and team quality could end up giving Thompson the edge. Being a key member on the league’s best team should carry some weight with the coaches. If Bryant starts the All-Star game, then Harden will rightfully be given a reserve spot, making it more difficult for the Warriors swingman to get in.
So in addition to voting for the Golden State backcourt, it seems as if it would be wise for Warriors fans to also vote for Harden. Coming off a successful run with Team USA and amid his best season as a professional, Thompson’s work ethic and demeanor have won over fans and coaches all over the league, which can’t hurt once selection time comes around.
Everyone loves a good storyline and show and there are few things that would be more exciting than the Splash Brothers on the court together in a game with no consequences and a constant green light to shoot.