There's been a lot of debate about All Star snubs and I thought I'd throw out Gary Payton's name as one. I know the Lakers already have two representatives, but GP has played the entire season and has been the leader on this team. Despite the Laker's injury problems, Payton has not complained and has shouldered the responsibility of leading the Lakers. Thoughts?
He hasn't complained? I recall him saying This isn't what I signed up for... in an interview after a game they lost. Anyway, I don't think he was snubbed. He's still good, but far past his prime, and I think those others would made it ahead of him are better selections.
He said those words in regards to Shaq and Kobe feuding, not the injury situation. I was hoping Payton could take the spot Marbury would have had if he was still in the West. But I agree, Sam Cassell deserved to be the other PG ahead of Payton.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting shapecity:</div><div class="quote_post">He said those words in regards to Shaq and Kobe feuding, not the injury situation. I was hoping Payton could take the spot Marbury would have had if he was still in the West. But I agree, Sam Cassell deserved to be the other PG ahead of Payton.</div> The fued came before the season started, didnt it? His statement came after Malone went down and the Lakers started losing... atleast I think.
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Phreeze:</div><div class="quote_post">The fued came before the season started, didnt it? His statement came after Malone went down and the Lakers started losing... atleast I think.</div> No, that fued took place early in the season. I remember Jim Gray interviewed Kobe, and Kobe got fined for his comments.
You are both right, the feud took place right before the season started, and during the early part of the season. However, Payton's comments came during the season.
I don't think he deserves it more than Cassell, he deserves it more than Francis but there is no way around that one.
I wouldn't really call Payton a "snub" but he should definetley have been considered. Like you said, he's the only Laker that has played every game this year, and it's too bad his leadership doesn't show up in the box score. Lakers have been through some hard times with the Shaq/Kobe feud and then the injuries, he has stepped up for the Lakers and has controlled the Laker offense when Rush, Slava, Cook had to start. However, his numbers aren't good enough, and in the All-Star Game, that's what the fans and coaches look for, we all know the reason why though. Yeah, I was expecting more like 15 points and 8 assists form GP as an average a game, but he gets the job done.
I wouldn't be sure if Payton is a snub but, you had to see the fact that he was the only star in the lakers that stepped up for them. The only thing I do hate about him is that he always gets ejected from the game!!
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting kvh4fan:</div><div class="quote_post">There are so many great players in the west. It's impossible to choose them all.</div> Don't forget that Nash and Cassell have a better year than GP(statistical) Than you have already 2 Point Guards who are better than Gary, plus, Francis was and will be chosen by the fans... In the east he would have a slight chance, in the west... No
