The Observer, February 18, 2005
Volume XXXVII, Issue 18
Webber and Francis join the NHL among the locked out
This week, an all-star edition of Smack Talk discusses the best professional all-star game, which NBA player most deserves to be in the all-star game (and who deserves to be there but isn't), and the ballyhoo that is the new Wackadoo's.
Question 1: Which of sports' all-star games is the best?
Shardule: The best all-star game in professional sports is the NHL all-star game. Those who are selected to the NHL one are truly honored to be selected, unlike in other professional sports. Moreover, it appeals to people on an international level, with players representing many countries. This is important because an all-star game should not only be an exhibition of talent, but also a reflection on the cultural values and image of the sport itself. In other professional sports, few countries outside of the United States are represented in their all-star game. The current lockout throws a wrench in that, but I believe this discussion should be based upon which is the best all-star game, regardless of other circumstances.
In addition, the actual game itself is extremely entertaining. I personally view a high-scoring, fast-paced hockey game as second to only football in terms of pure athletic entertainment value. Combine the game with the multicultural representation, along with the many individual competitions that occur during that same weekend, and you've got an all-star extravaganza. While it might not generate the highest TV ratings, anyone who watches the game can see why the NHL all-star game is truly the most entertaining and best overall.
Todd: You're right, the NHL all-stars show up and play in their all-star game, but they don't even come and play during the regular season. Look to a different league for the top honors in the all-star game category: the NBA. Let's start with some facts. The NHL had a 1.8 TV rating compared to the NBA's 5.1, and the only sport to beat that was baseball. But since Barry Bonds won't even take a swing in an all-star game, I give that game no respect. Basketball has it all in a big weekend where you see your favorite stars in the all-star game as well as events such as the Dunk Contest and the Three Point Contest. They even have a rookie game that gave us a chance to see LeBron and Carmelo on the same team! To get my respect, the NHL has to start playing, and have something more interesting in their all-star weekend than having a puck that glows on the screen. For now, I like basketball for the great and enjoyable weekend with a wide variety of events in which enthusiastic athletes participate.
Question 2: Who was the biggest NBA all-star snub this year?
Todd: I have to feel for Chris Webber of the Kings. The guy's playing great this year and without doubt deserved a spot. He averages 21.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, and also has four triple-doubles this year (tied for the league lead). These numbers are very comparable with those he put up in 2003, the last time he was named an all-star. Not only are these great numbers, but he is leading his team to a great run in the tough Western Conference. Even though competition to make the West squad is high due to so many good players, this competition should not eliminate consideration of Webber's name for even the reserve list of all-star players.
Shardule: If that's your best argument in our weekly competition, then you'd better transfer to JCU. However, I am here to argue against the exclusion of Steve Francis of the Magic. He is single-handedly keeping the Magic afloat in the Eastern Conference. He is leading his team in points and assists, and more impressively, he averages over six rebounds per game, which is difficult for a guard to do. He also had to adapt to a new environment, being traded from Houston to Orlando in the off-season, and has the Magic in contention despite playing with a limited supporting cast. Grant Hill is a good supporting player, but besides that, the Magic have not had anyone to take the pressure off Francis. Thus, Francis, though not producing the statistics of Webber, has had to deal with a bigger burden and has produced very well so far this season.
