Pascal Siakam Deserves NBA All-Star Recognition
Pascall Siakam has been having an impressive season despite playing for one of the league’s struggling teams, the Indiana Pacers. Averaging 23.6 points per game, Siakam stands as one of the top scorers in the NBA. His scoring average places him 21st overall and first among power forwards in the Eastern Conference.
Pascal Siakam’s Performance
This season, Siakam’s usage rate has reached a career high. He’s currently being targeted defensively, with opponents doubling him more often than last year. In the previous season, he faced double teams on 12% of his possessions. That figure has now increased to about 16% this year.
Although Siakam’s effectiveness has diminished, he remains crucial to the Pacers. His shooting percentages have fallen from last year’s 51.9% to 48.3% for field goals. Likewise, his three-point shooting has decreased from 38.9% to 37.5%, and his two-point shooting has dropped from 56.8% to 52.0%.
Durability and Game Impact
Durability further strengthens his All-Star candidacy. Siakam has participated in 41 of the 43 games this season. He missed only two contests, both due to scheduled rest. The Pacers lost significantly in those games, indicating Siakam’s importance to the team.
Support from Coach Rick Carlisle
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle has been vocal in advocating for Siakam’s All-Star recognition. After a recent game-winning shot against the Boston Celtics, Carlisle praised Siakam’s poise and discipline. He emphasized that Siakam’s performance significantly supports his case for an All-Star selection.
- Siakam’s impressive scoring average: 23.6 points per game
- Field goal percentage drop: 51.9% to 48.3%
- Increased double team rate: 12% to 16%
- Games played: 41 out of 43
Additionally, Carlisle is actively promoting Siakam’s candidacy to other coaches. Despite the Pacers’ poor overall record of 10-33, Carlisle believes that Siakam deserves consideration among the 12 Eastern Conference players selected for the All-Star Game.
Competitive Landscape
The competition for the available spots is intense. Some of the other players in contention include Michael Porter Jr., Desmond Bane, Norman Powell, Bam Adebayo, and Karl-Anthony Towns. As Carlisle pointed out, it’s crucial to evaluate players based on individual performance, regardless of their teams’ standings.
Siakam’s case for NBA All-Star recognition is compelling. As he continues to put up significant numbers, the support from teammates and coaches alike underlines his importance to the Pacers. Siakam is not just a name on a struggling roster; he is a player who is deserving of All-Star recognition.
