Media Favor Damian Lillard as 2018 NBA All-Star

Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard has been absent from the NBA All-Star Game since 2015, despite averaging over 25 points per game during the span between his last All-Star appearance and today. If media opinions are any indication, the dry spell may be over. 2018 NBA All-Star Voting is just commencing, but as Casey Holdahl of the Trail Blazers reports, NBA analysts and columnists are tabbing Lillard as a likely participant.

Holdahl’s piece compiles reflections from Sean Deveny of The Sporting News; Matt Moore, formerly of CBSSports.com, and SBNation’s own Paul Flannery, who says, “Damian Lillard should absolutely be in Los Angeles” despite competition that includes Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul, and Jimmy Butler.

Adam Fromal of Bleacher Report adds:

Damian Lillard isn't getting enough love for his performance this season. His efficiency is down, and the Portland Trail Blazers turn in one of the league's clunkiest shot profiles; but he retains parking-lot range, is a human water wiggly off the dribble and boasts disarming bursts both on and off the ball.

You can see Holdahl’s post for the entire rundown. Click here for all the avenues available for voting for the 2018 NBA All-Star Game starters.