2011 NBA All-Star Game Prediction From Whatifsports.com

A common condemnation on the NBA has been the cry of "No defense!" from critics who claim the Association's style lacks the tenacious resistance of the rim found in the amateur ranks. This conviction is not one refuted by the play during the league's annual All-Star Game, as the two conference squads light up the scoreboard like a Christmas tree.

Because of the laissez-faire nature of the performance, the NBA All-Star Game has taken a backseat to the rest of the weekend's activities. The Three-Point Shootout, Slam Dunk Contest, the Skills Challenge, even the Shooting Stars Competition has taken precedent over Sunday's showcase. (Ok, maybe not the Shooting Stars Competition, but still.)

Will the state of play improve during this weekend's All-Star gala? Maybe, but this assembly of All-Stars has an unparalleled aura of excitement surrounding the event. With stimulating subplots and storylines the scene at the Staples Center will become must-see TV this weekend. Here's a breakdown of several of the narratives that will be pumping adrenaline into this weekend's All-Star activities:

2010-11 NBA All-Star Simulation Matchup Win% Avg Score NBA East 40.6 107.9 NBA West 59.4 110.7 The Blake Griffin Show 
Not often do 21-35 teams find themselves the focal point of Sportscenter, but the Clippers have become a nightly institution on sports telecasts thanks to the aerial stylings of the rookie Griffin. The former Sooner will have the opportunity to own the weekend, as Griffin will be partaking in the Rookie-Sophomore showdown on Friday, the Slam Dunk contest on Saturday and the All-Star Game on Sunday.

Of course, Griffin is a Clipper, so it's well within the realm of possibility that Griffin tears every ligament in his body attempting a throwdown.

Or Will Kobe Control the Conch? 
The term "facilitator" has never been in the Black Mamba's vernacular. One would be misguided in prognosticating Br...