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5 Reasons Why LaMarcus Aldridge Should Be an NBA All-Star Starter

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By @b2brennan

5 Reasons Why Aldridge Should Be an NBA All-Star Starter

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LaMarcus Aldridge has been one of the best power-forwards in the NBA this season. Here are five reasons why this is the year he should finally be a starter in the All-Star game.

5. Team Success

Portland Trail Blazers v Los Angeles Clippers
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5. Team Success

Portland Trail Blazers v Los Angeles Clippers
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The Blazers are currently in second place in the Western Conference. They also boast great team numbers such as sixth in scoring, first in rebounding and third in points against. Without big man Robin Lopez for a long stretch, Aldridge has been a main reason for the team's all-around success.

4. Underrated Defender

Los Angeles Clippers v Portland Trail Blazers
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4. Underrated Defender

Los Angeles Clippers v Portland Trail Blazers
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Everyone knows about his offensive ability, but Aldridge has become a well-rounded defender. Among power-forwards, he is top 10 in blocked shots per game while not even being in the top 50 in number of fouls. He's very talented on help defense and has mastered stripping the ball away with his quick hands.

3. Offensive Game

Toronto Raptors v Portland Trail Blazers
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3. Offensive Game

Toronto Raptors v Portland Trail Blazers
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Aldridge is nearly unstoppable on offense. His low-post fadeaway is unblockable, he can score in the paint easily and now he has the ability to shoot three-pointers. In two meetings, he is averaging 24.5 PPG against arguably the best defending power forward, Anthony Davis.

2. Leadership

Houston Rockets v Portland Trailblazers - Game Three
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2. Leadership

Houston Rockets v Portland Trailblazers - Game Three
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Along with his talent, Aldridge is one of the Blazers' team leaders. He is one of the team captains and has a pivotal role in coaching up young players. His ability to direct traffic on the court and help teammates has contributed to the Blazers having arguably the best team chemistry in the league.

1. Individual Statistics

Houston Rockets v Portland Trailblazers Ð Game Four
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1. Individual Statistics

Houston Rockets v Portland Trailblazers Ð Game Four
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Sixth in scoring (23.1 PPG) and seventh in rebounding (10.7 RBG), Aldridge is the one of only two players in the league in the top 10 in both. He also has the second-most double-doubles this season. If that isn't All-Star starter worthy, I don't know what is.

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