It’s All-Star season, and with fans already weighing in (twice) and my media ballot due this week, it’s time to take a look at who has earned the five spots in each conference. Let’s dig in.
Eastern Conference Frontcourt: Joel Embiid, Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo
Nothing too complicated here. Embiid’s numbers are a shade below last season, which gives reason for pause until you remember that injuries were likely all that prevented him from the MVP in 2020-21. Embiid continues to be a formidable inside presence, mixing in a steady jumper—Embiid is on pace to shoot above 36% from three for the second straight season—and getting to the free throw line more than 10 times per game.