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NBA All-Star Reserves: Thunderous Intentions Team make their picks

By Tamberlyn Richardson

Jan 23, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) goes up for a shot against Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) during the first half at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 23, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) goes up for a shot against Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) during the first half at Vivint Smart Home Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) takes a break during media day at the Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) takes a break during media day at the Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Ali Ahmed’s Picks : @CDNBallJunkie

Western Conference Reserves:

Russell Westbrook (OKC-PG) – This one was a no-brainer for almost anyone in the NBA universe. Statistically, Westbrook is doing things on the court not seen in decades and is currently carrying this team of young, raw, KD-less roster into playoff position (6 th in the West). Undoubtedly an MVP favourite, Westbrook and his 30.8 PPG (league leading), 10.6 REB/G, and 10.4 APG should have been more than enough to solidify his place among the starters.

Damian Lillard (POR-PG) – With CP3 going down with a long-term injury, it’s about time we all gave credit to Damian Lillard and his herculean effort over in Portland. His team may be outside of playoff position right now but Dame deserves a nod for his spectacular play thus far. Snub someone else!

Marc Gasol (MEM-C) – Simply said, Gasol’s effort in keeping the Grizzlies afloat during Mike Conley’s injury should earn him a nod here.

DeMarcus Cousins (SAC-PF) – Boogie earns himself a spot among the stars mainly because of his beastly offensive production this season. He’s averaging a career high in both points and assists this season.

Draymond Green (GSW-PF) – It pains me to write this, but Green has proved to be a juggernaut on the defensive end time and time again. His facilitating (team leader in assists per game) on the court has been critical to keeping the offense flowing, even with the addition of Kevin Durant.

Rudy Gobert (UTA-C) – Westbrook can laugh him off all he wants, but Utah seems to be clicking on all cylinders heading into the All-Star break mainly because of the effect Gobert has had defensively and on the glass.

Klay Thompson (GSW-SG) – Find me someone who can score 60 points in 29 minutes, all while holding the ball for a total of 90 seconds.

Must Read: Shocking similarities between 2016-17 Thunder and 1988-89 Bulls

Jan 7, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) during a game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz at Target Center. The Jazz defeated the Timberwolves 94-92. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 7, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) during a game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Utah Jazz at Target Center. The Jazz defeated the Timberwolves 94-92. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

Eastern Conference Reserves:

Isaiah Thomas (BOS-PG) – Never. Underestimate. Size. Isaiah Thomas and his 5’9 frame can carve you up from almost anywhere on the court. He has taken this Celtics team by the horns and has complete control on the court.

Kyle Lowry (TOR-PG) – I’m going to stir the pot here and say that Lowry has been arguably the best guard in the East this season. Punch his ticket.

Kevin Love (CLE-PF) – Whether you realize it or not, Love is still ballin’ these days and his 20.5 PPG and 11 REB/G has been a saving grace for the Cavs.

Joel Embiid (PHI-C) – Embiid seems to have done something we thought no one could ever do, which is lead the Philly closer to the light at the end of the tunnel for this Sixers organization.

Paul George (IND-SF) – No shock to see PG13 here. He’s done a solid job trying to push this intriguing Pacers roster forward in the east. He scores, defends well, and has been shooting a career high percentage (45% FG) this year.

John Wall (WAS-PG) – I have to slot John Wall into this fringe spot merely because of the spectacular play of Thomas and Lowry this season. If the coaches don’t get funky with their votes this year, the ever-improving guard should have his spot in New Orleans.

Kmba Walker (CHA-PG) – Walker’s exceptional play this season has been evident in the wins and close losses the Hornets have suffered this year. His hot start to the year has him on pace to improve, statistically, each of the last 3 years.

More from Thunderous Intentions

Well there you have it, the Thunderous Intentions’ Team picks for 2017 NBA All Star Reserves. We invite you to comment on our picks and make your own in the comments section.

Yesterday, Domantas Sabonis learned he would participate in the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Game.

Unfortunately Alex Abrines didn’t make the cut, though he’s not alone as several deserving players missed the cut.  You can catch up on who joins Sabonis in the TI article here.

Next up, we’ll learn who the participants are for NBA All-Star Saturday night. To wit, Zach LaVine has chosen not to tempt fate by trying to three-peat as dunk champion.

Check back tonight to find out who the coaches selected for the 14 reserve spots and to learn which players got the snub this year.

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