The NBA All-Star Game has been a hot topic lately. Fans and analysts were not impressed, citing the lack of defense and easy scoring. Some players even admitted they didn't take it seriously. Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd weighed in with his solution after Tuesday's practice.
Kidd suggested a simple fix, saying, "The only thing you can do is tell them not to shoot in the first five seconds, it has to be a two. That’s just what the game is today… But I think that’s just where the game is, everyone is shooting threes. You can’t shoot in the first ten seconds, it can’t be a three. Or make them run a play."
During the All-Star Game, there weren't many strategic plays, which might have made the game more competitive. Kidd also noted the impact of the three-point shot on the game's high scores, saying, "I think guys have gotten better. In the ‘90s, the 3-pointer wasn’t used as it is today. Everyone can shoot the three. That’s just the nature of the game."
Despite criticisms, eliminating the game isn't the best solution. Watching the world's best players compete is still exciting, even if the game lacks intensity. Some suggest motivating players by awarding the conference winner with home-court advantage in the NBA Finals.
While Damian Lillard and Tyrese Haliburton stole the spotlight, Kidd praised Karl-Anthony Towns for his 50-point performance, saying, "We saw Dame (Damian Lillard), (Tyrese) Haliburton put on a great show...I mean, I felt bad for KAT (Karl-Anthony Towns). Kat scored 50 and no one even mentioned his name."
Lillard's impressive half-court shots made regular three-pointers look easy. As for the future of the All-Star Game, it remains to be seen. If the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals this season, Kidd might have the chance to coach in next year's game.
Login