Voting for the 2010 NBA All-Star teams began on November 10, 2009. Here are my picks for the Eastern Conference starters.
My ground rules: though the official NBA All-Star ballot allows you to pick two guards, two forwards and a center, I'm of the opinion that positions matter, even in an exhibition game. I'll be selecting a point guard and shooting guard, a small forward and a power forward for the East and West squads.
1. Point Guard: Rajon Rondo, Boston Celtics
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Eastern Conference point guard is probably the toughest position to select this year... I'm not a big believer in Jameer Nelson, Devin Harris is always hurt, and though Gilbert Arenas looks great so far, I need to see more from a guy that has missed the last two seasons before I'm ready to call him an All-Star. That leaves Rondo -- partly because the East's starting five should have at least one Celtic, and partly because I love the idea of a player known for his defense getting All-Star honors.
2. Shooting Guard - Dwyane Wade, Miami Heat
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D-Wade is the obvious choice here. He hasn't posted eye-popping numbers in 2009-10 just yet, but there's always the potential for something special when he's on the floor.
3. Small Forward - LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers
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Who else? Don't blame the Cavs' slow start on King James, who is playing at as high a level as ever.
4. Power Forward - Chris Bosh, Toronto Raptors
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Sorry, Kevin Garnett fans -- Bosh has been one of the league's elite performers through the season's first two weeks, averaging a hair under 30 points per game.
5. Center - Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic
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Superman is another no-brainer All-Star selection. (Note to NBA fans... please don't vote for Shaquille O'Neal. I love the big fella too, but it's time to move on.)
