We’re barely into December, so it is still very early to have this discussion, but I figure why not?
The Celtics are in a tier of their own, regardless of the Cavs current record. The defending champs have nothing left to prove but are out to prove everything. If the NBA community keeps disrespecting them, they are just going to keep dominating. Their only hope is to lull them into a state of complacency by giving them all the accolades that they deserve (and then some).
So let’s talk about the All Star game. How many All Stars do you think the Celtics can get this year?
Jayson Tatum is going to be a starter. No question.
Jalyen Brown is at least going to be a reserve.
Beyond that it gets interesting.
Allow me to be the latest to make the case that Derrick White should be an All Star. He’s already averaging over 18 points (41.9% from 3), 4.7 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and an incredible 1.1 blocks per game. And I don’t think he’s even playing at the top of his game yet. Add in the elite all around defensive chops and I don’t see how he gets left off the All Star team (not that defense is really valued for the ASG, but that’s another topic). He’s already a Gold Medal winner. Give this man his All Star jersey.
Beyond Derrick, can we squeeze in another? Can we make a Noa Dalzell type prediction for Payton Pritchard? He’s already the front-runner for 6th Man of the Year. Can he make a legit run at the ASG? If you go based on PPG, he’s got a lot of players to pass in the East. But he’s also an elite 3 point shooter on high volume (in a league that is increasingly dominated by shooting).
Beyond PP, I’m not sure if there’s a case. Porzingis has missed too much time. Jrue is a superstar role player but he’s not going to put up the stats (and that’s totally fine!). Horford is a 6’9” Yoda with a jumpshot, but he’s picking his spots (and that’s totally fine!).
Side note: Mazzulla couldn’t be the coach of the ASG last year because the same coach can’t do it 2 years in a row. But (correct me if I’m wrong) I think he would be eligible this year if the Celtics pass the Cavs in the standings.
So let me put it to you. How many All Stars do you think the Celtics are getting this year? Feel free to list out the expected rosters. (I would be fine with the Celtics rotation guys, Giannis, and maybe Donovan Mitchell, but I’m a bit of a homer)
