Feb 6, 2012; Atlanta, GA, USA; Phoenix Suns point guard Steve Nash (13) drives the ball against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half at Phillips Arena. The Suns defeated the Hawks 99-90. Mandatory Credit: Paul Abell-US PRESSWIRE

It’s probably safe to say that having two Suns would be bad for the All-Star Game. Earlier in the season, it might’ve seemed like Marcin Gortat would be more likely than Steve Nash to be an All-Star, tonight, however, everything is clearly right.

Gortat is having himself a great season. Unfortunately for him, so are Andrew Bynum and Marc Gasol. There’s still hope for him, however, as he may possibly replace one of the aforementioned in case something happens or they elect to sit out. Although, Pau Gasol might be another guy to get the commisioner’s nod in that case.

Now Nash, Nash is having an amazing season. He’s 38, leading the league in assists, leads all guards in field goal percentage, while creating 85% of his offence for himself. If there’s a reason that the Suns are 3.5 wins removed from the 4 seed (yes, it’s that close in the Wild, Wild West) it’s Nash. And after getting snubbed last year, Nash came back with a vengeance. And… Him passing to Blake Griffin? YES PLEASE.

Welcome back to the All-Star team, Steve. You earned it.

1. How will Blake Griffin handle the workload (and the pressure)?
   This could become, it probably already is, the Blake Griffin weekend. The Clippers forward played in the rookie game last night (14 points and the usual array of plays above the rim) and will then take part in the dunk contest  and finally the big game on Sunday night.
   It’s the first time a Clippers player will be under more scrutiny and more expectations than any member of the Lakers.  
2. How about Kobe?
   Since the game is in LA and we all know how much Kobe hates to be sideshow, I’m expecting a huge performance by Bryant. I believe Kobe won’t consider the game too much of an exhibition after all, not since the Lakers are in the middle of a long mid-season slump and the doubters are all out there.
3. The 3-point shootout
   Since, with only one notable exception (see Blake), the best players are staying away from the dunk contest the same can’t be said for the shooting contest: Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Durant will be featured in this year’s contest. It could be fun even if Steve Nash will be greatly missed.
4. The City of Angels
   How big is it going to be? The All-Star game should alternate between NY and LA (ok maybe Chicago every 4-5 years). The Hollywood stars will be out in force (only a week before the Academy Awards) and it could be as close to a real game as an All Stars could be since a good number of players have L.A. links: Kobe, Gasol and Griffin play in the city, Westbrook and Love played college ball in town while Paul Pierce and Ray Allen are also from California. I’m sure nobody loves to lose in front of friends and families.
5. Rihanna’s halftime show. One simple question. Will she dress like in the S&M video?

Yours truly, Luca “the Steve Fan”