Toronto Raptors: 2018-19 NBA midseason roundtable
Who’s made the better case for first NBA All-Star nod, Ibaka or Siakam?
Bossetti: I think it’s Pascal. He’s been a little better in my opinion and I believe forward is easier to qualify for than center.
Go Paolo: That’s a tough one. I’ll roll with Siakam because I like how smooth he plays and he doesn’t seem as concerned with his efficiency as Ibaka.
Bossetti: Also I mentioned this on Twitter today: It’s really weird the Raptors broadcast isn’t promoting Pascal Siakam’s All-Star bid. Dallas is promoting Wesley Matthews, but Pascal Siakam can’t get a mention?
Turco: I saw your tweet, I am in complete shock and awe that the Raptors’ social media account has content pumping for Leonard and Lowry, but nothing for either Ibaka or Siakam. This team could easily make a case for three or four All-Stars this year. Second-best record in the league, first to 30 wins, played one of the toughest schedule to date? Definitely deserving of at least three.
Bossetti: Exactly. It feels weird they are only promoting two. Even if Siakam and Ibaka aren’t voted in, it’s a nice show of faith from the organization.
Go Paolo: I’ve voted five Raptors twice already.
Turco: Side question for you guys: Let’s say Kyrie Irving is a lock to get the one of the starting spots, do you think Lowry will over someone maybe more deserving such as Kemba Walker? Has he played enough games after missing 11 games to date?
Bossetti: I don’t think Kyle can earn a start. He is sixth right now and shouldn’t catch multiple people ahead of him.
Go Paolo: Dwyane Wade might even make it in. The East’s guards are so thin. But I would put Kemba over Lowry. Home court, was playing like an MVP and Lowry’s numbers have dipped a bit. But both deserve to be in there.
Bossetti: Victor Oladipo over Lowry too
Go Paolo: Oh yeah, I forgot about him.
Turco: Back to the topic on hand, realistically speaking, Siakam has been more impactful on the floor than Ibaka, even though some games the case could be made the other way around. Most Raptors fans, I believe would love to see what Spicy P would do at the All-Star weekend, but if I were a gambling man, the coaches would most likely vote in the veteran over a third-year pro.
Bossetti: That’s reasonable. I just think the momentum seems to be on Pascal’s side and once the narrative and momentum line up, it helps your chances.