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NBA All-Star Game Draft: 1st Player Drafted Best Bets & Predictions (2023)

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LeBron James is now engaged in one of the most impressive odd-winning runs in the annals of sports history. Six years ago, the National Basketball Association (NBA) began using an All-Star Draft as an alternative to its traditional East vs. West model. In every one of those six seasons, James has been chosen to serve as a captain. The club that he chose ultimately came out on top in each of the first five games. This year, he will attempt to improve his record to 6-0.

The Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was picked against James and came out on the losing end both in 2019 and 2020, is the only thing standing in his way.  Now, he’s hoping that the third time will be the charm, as the two captains will soon draw the squads that take the court on Sunday.

James, who received the most votes overall, will have the opportunity to make the first selection for the starting lineup. Upon selecting from reserves, Antetokounmpo will go first.

Let’s take a closer look at who James might take first overall.

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Best NBA All-Star Draft 1st Player Selected Bet

Odds courtesy of DraftKings

Irving is not just a former teammate of LeBron’s but also a free agency target in 2023 who, according to reports, was interested in joining the Laker organization at the trade deadline. That trade did not go through, reportedly because the owner of the Nets wanted to stick it to Kyrie, but Los Angeles did acquire a number of younger players whose contracts were about to expire or were not guaranteed and who could be swapped out for Irving next year.

If James didn’t take advantage of this weekend to try to sign a potential free agent upgrade, I would be shocked, and his history of playing (and winning) with Kyrie won’t hurt. James also showed his love for Kyrie during the vaccination debacle, carefully tip-toeing around the idea of being critical.

It also doesn’t hurt that Irving has been playing well this season despite all of the drama. Heading into the break, Irving is averaging 27.2 points per game while shooting 49% from the field. I like for him not just get drafted first here, but have a great game as well.

Best Bet: Kyrie Irving (+550 via DraftKings)

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