Toronto Raptors: Pascal Siakam’s All-Star chances compared to competition
If going strictly by overall impact, as calculated by win shares, Siakam is one of the league’s top players, signaling entry into the All-Star game.
Unfortunately, Siakam will have to contend with the fans, media and players alike to gain entry among the league’s elite, instead relying on men that evaluate talent on a daily basis.
When put up against his counterparts in the East, several of Siakam’s numbers reign supreme, while his lack of drastic scoring numbers largely hurts his case.
Among the rest of the league, Siakam’s average of 15 points per game ranks outside of the top-75, among the likes of Domantas Sabonis and Rudy Gobert. Though one can argue Gobert aids Siakam’s case, his lead-leading tally in defensive win shares would be the catalyst rather than his scoring.
The difference between Siakam and the players in front of him in scoring is the unfathomable efficiency he operates with. His 63.8 true shooting percentage is rivaled by only one starting forward in the league with over 30 minutes per game (Juancho Hernangomez).
Though his attempts are lesser, the efficiency of Siakam’s scoring is greater than that of Antetokounmpo, Durant, Leonard and LeBron James, all of which are regarding as the league’s elite.
As shown by voting numbers, Siakam falls far short of the league’s elite in popularity. If he is unable to make it on his opening attempt, injuries are likely to open up more spots of which Siakam could occupy.
Overall, Siakam may be a year ahead of schedule as far as voters are concerned. A MIP award would likely change his favor among the national media and fans going into next year, with another improvement only aiding his case.