2018-19 All-Star picks: Do the Philadelphia 76ers deserve 3 players?

Anthony Davis’ case for a starting spot would be much stronger if the Pelicans’ weren’t toiling below .500 on the season, although it’s not Davis’ fault. That makes AD one of the top reserves. He’s averaging 29.3 points, 13.3 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game.

The Nuggets continue to fight Golden State for the top spot in the Western Conference, an impressive feat for a team ravaged by injuries all season. Nikola Jokic is the steadying force, giving Denver a hyper-versatile offensive focal point. He’s averaging 19.8 points, 10.3 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game.

Portland continues to hold it together despite lackluster depth and looming questions about the core’s long-term fit. Damian Lillard might be the best point guard outside Curry, battling Kyrie for that honor.

Luka Doncic has been the Mavs’ undisputed best player at 19 years old, producing with impressive poise and efficiency for a rookie. He’s averaging 19.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game, keeping Dallas one the outskirts of playoff contention in the cutthroat Western Conference.

The Defensive Player of the Year favorite for a second consecutive season, Rudy Gobert remains Utah’s most impactful player. He’s an absolute game-changer on defense, averaging 2.1 blocks and spearheading an elite defensive unit. Add in efficient contributions on offense, and Gobert deserves his first All-Star bid.

While it might be the unpopular pick among Spurs players, DeMar DeRozan has earned his spot in the All-Star Game. San Antonio, despite deep flaws and countless injuries, is still competitive. DeRozan has shown growth across the board, averaging a career-high 6.3 assists per game to go along with his typical scoring prowess.

Despite awful shooting splits and some putrid performances, Russell Westbrook remains integral to OKC’s success. He’s shooting just 24.2 percent from three-point range, but his playmaking and volume of production deserves another All-Star bid. He’s averaging a triple-double, for what it’s worth.

Next in line: Karl-Anthony Towns, Buddy Hield, De’Aaron Fox, LaMarcus Aldridge