All-star games: Worth it?
It's a sad day in sports when neither the 2010 Winter games in Vancouver nor the NBA All-Star game are trending topics on Twitter.
#V-day? What IS Valentine's Day, really?
You don't need to convince me the NBA All-Star game is the least compelling of the pro-sports fashion shows and doesn't deserve our precious Tweets. (The Olympics is a horse of a different color and for another day). After some quick thought though, the NBA might be right behind MLB for the best all-star game:
Major League Baseball: It steals the show. Home-field advantage in the World Series is on the line, the players voted into the game don't pass on it (not even the pitchers) and it's always thrilling despite the America League's ridiculous winning streak over the National League.
National Football League: The Pro Bowl earned a little more credibility this year by plopping the game before the Super Bowl on the calendar. Still, with star players like Brett Favre and others bailing on the NFL's dog-and-pony show, it's not worth tuning in. Hitting's reduced, it's not a true effort, players are trying not to get hurt.
National Hockey League: Haven't watched this showdown in years. Why? I dunno - who cares? - I guess. Won't see a fight, won't see a crosscheck, won't see a goalie make a save. These shootouts might be fun for seeing all of your favs on the ice at the same time, but the competition level pales in comparison to the real thing. It might as well be an offensive skills competition.
Major League Soccer: The MLS All-Star game might have a little more traction in the debate if more Americans watched and - here's the key word - supported soccer. Having covered the 2006 game at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Ill., I can tell you first hand the players are out to impress. And MLS may be the most creative when it comes to pitting its all-stars against other teams from other countries instead of merely its own players.
National Basketball Association: So what about the NBA game? For starters, anytime the over-under for total points scored in a basketball game is 275, there's a problem. Don't get me wrong, offense is exciting, especially in basketball when clear paths to the lane are handed out like chicken wings on 50-cent Tuesdays.
But like hockey, there's no defense, no manning up. Heck, players are nearly cheering for their opponent. Having said that, there's always one guy who secretly wants to win the game's MVP award, you know what I'm saying? And that's good for something.
My official rankings:
1. MLB
2. MLS
3. NBA
4. NFL
5. NHL
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Posted by GAG at 2/14/2010 10:09 AM 
Categories: all-star games
Tags: Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics NBA All-Star game
Categories: all-star games
Tags: Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics NBA All-Star game
My rankings:
1. MLB
2. MLB
3. MLB
(get the point?)
4. NHL
5. NBA
6. NFL
7. MLS
I follow hockey and like most Americans, I don't support soccer. I don't even really like it.
I can't stand watching the NBA unless a game is tied with a minute left. I do start to pay some attention during the playoffs as I am a sports junkie. However, I like the skills, 3 point, and dunk competition that come with the NBA's All-Star festivities. That being said, this year's dunk contest was the worst ever!
I wish the NFL could figure out a way to make the Pro Bowl more appealing, but there is too much at stake in such a violent game.
I have been watching more of the Olympics than I imagined I ever would. I suppose that I always do. I have found the coverage to be very good, but wish NBC would utilize its other networks a bit more. Maybe most are following on the Internet, but what about those who have crappy computers like me?
Here is a thought to ponder: Years ago, the NCAA tournament used to have a consolation bracket. And they do still have a skills competition for the nation's top seniors that have been eliminated from the dance. But, what about some sort of NCAA All-American (All-Star) Showdown on the Sunday between the Final Four and the National Championship game? There wouldn't be much at stake, but most of these know no other way than to play with crazy amounts of hustle. I would be fine even if it was only seniors playing. What do you think Dicky V? I'm sure there would be plenty of Dukies and Tar Heels involved for you!
GO ILLINI!
PS- Watching Game 1 of the 2005 World Series today. Barrack had phenomenal seats to that game! I would like to know who the very large gentleman to his left was...
I am the DoubleB!
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I like any all-star game where the players get to wear their team's uniform. Who cares if it's confusing for the players, it's damn entertaining!
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I propose not to hold off until you get big sum of cash to order all you need! You should just take the business loans or just collateral loan and feel free
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