Washington Wizards: Former Wizards forward Jared Dudley thinks Bradley Beal should’ve replaced Kevin Love in the All-Star Game over Carmelo Anthony.
In a time when sensitivity is at an all-time high, Jared Dudley has never pulled any punches, even when he knows backlash is inevitable.
Dudley, who played for the Washington Wizards last season, has gained a reputation of being one of the most outspoken players in the NBA. He’s routinely featured on nationally televised programming and radio, giving opinions that other players would normally refrain from stating.
He called Carmelo Anthony out for being the most overrated player in the NBA and was immediately hit with criticism.
And after the New York Knicks’ star replaced Kevin Love in the 2017 NBA All-Star Game, Dudley vented on Twitter.
Instead of just complaining about the selection, Dudley gave love to his former Wizards teammate, Bradley Beal, who was considered the most viable replacement for the injured Love.
Wow!! @NBA I just found out they choose Carmelo over Bradley Beal for the All Star game! SMH! This is the definition of Politics!
— Jared Dudley (@JaredDudley619) February 16, 2017
Before the announcement was made by the league, our own Ryan Eugene made the case for Beal.
Beal is averaging a career-high 22.2 points, 2.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists on 40% shooting from three and 47% shooting from the field. Washington is on-pace for their first 50-win season since 1978 while sitting third in the Eastern Conference.
Beal has scored 40-plus points on multiple occasions this season, including an overtime thriller against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
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Washington made Beal the highest paid player in the franchise’s history after signing him to a $128 million extension this past summer.
Injuries, specifically reoccurring stress reactions, hindered Beal’s development early in his career, making the investment a major risk for the Wizards.
Thus far, Beal has been able to stay healthy and the Washington Wizards are getting serious return on their investment.
He’s expanded his offensive game, becoming an all-around scorer – not just a 3-point shooting.
His newfound ability to create for himself off the dribble has opened up the court for his teammates, including Otto Porter, who’s leading the NBA in 3-point percentage.
Markieff Morris has also benefited from Beal’s development as he’s become a real threat from deep.
Washington was lucky enough to find two guards in the NBA Draft whose games complement one another. John Wall, who’s averaging 23 points and 11 assists, is likely going to be named to an All-NBA team for the first time in his career.
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And while Beal isn’t technically an All-Star, he’s playing at an elite level, which matters more than the title. Dudley has noticed it too.