With the NHL All-Star game behind us, the NBA All-Star game just ahead, and the NFL Pro-Bowl just a few weeks ago (sorry MLB), I just wanted make a few comments on these games and how the professional governing organizations aren't taking advantage of these events.
MLB All-Star Game
The MLB is the one group that does most of these things correct. But of course, there's room for improvement. Like most All-Star games the players are mostly voted on by the public. I don't necessarily mind this aspect, and baseball has enough positions that it's not too big of a deal. But starters should be selected from merit, in a two phased system where stats select the candidates and coaches/writers choose the actual starters. Then the public can select the rest of the clubhouse, except the few that the manager gets to select for his team.
Why this system? Teams like Yankees, Red Sox, Dodgers, and Cubs have so many fans that certain players become All-Stars without deserving it. But I also know that without some of these guys, the viewers will be fewer than before. So you make the 'Starters' an item of prestige, then the rest the popular vote.
Also, the Home Run Derby did move in the right direction. But instead of having the player pick his team, they should let the manager of the team with the most home runs select his team (again with 1 fan vote). This way it's similarly fun with a pick, but puts it in the hands of a talent evaluator instead of a player. This should make for greater dynamics.
NBA All-Star Game
NBA is nice as well, but is completely flopped on player selections. Instead of the fans selecting the starters (like this year where the West is full of LA players and Ming supporters stuffing the vote) the fans should be selecting the reserves (or at least some of them).
The dunk contest should not be rigged...that's one thing. Kia paid for Griffin's dunk to win. That can't happen again. Also, the NBA's exhibitions are prime for fan fun. Why can't Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, and Sir Charles participate in things like the 3 point competition. They all get relegated to the "Celebrity" challenge. Why not let them do some of the skill items as well. Then have a Top Legend vs. Top Current...heck even put the Top D-Leaguer in there as well.
NHL All-Star Game
Now most people would admit that a 12-9 hockey game has to be amazing, but I feel bad for the goalies. A team full of offensive powerhouses is a nice show, but fans really don't have much of a say. Again, a team should be a rounded bunch not selected by their offensive skill.
To be honest, not sure what to do here. More fan involvement. Move it to an outdoor venue...that might be the biggest draw. On a pond? Mystery, Alaska anyone? hehe.
NFL Pro-Bowl
This is the biggest disaster of them all. First, everyone has got to stop getting into the Pro-Bowl. It's funny how one person says he can't make it and suddenly you've got some crazy player as a Pro-Bowler. Second, to help fix the first move the date so the Super Bowl doesn't impact the game. NFL made this move to help boost viewers...but it now makes making the Pro Bowl almost worthless.
Next, for the alternates...they aren't "Pro Bowlers". They get to play in the game to fill a roster spot, but are not a "Pro Bowlers". Next, you have to figure out how to get people actually playing. No one wants to get injured so they play the offense light. If this isn't fixed, then there shouldn't be a game. Plain and simple.
Again, not sure how to fix this. I honestly think the NFL should do an "I want a bigger contract" for all the people with something to proove...then you'll see a game!
MLS All-Star Game
Do they have All-Stars? Aren't they in England?
WNBA All-Star Game
Ok, this one is done right. Come on, last year's layup competition was amazing...
NLL All-Star Game
Seriously, how many Toronto Rock and Colorado Mammoth players can you fit on the teams? Huh? West is totally going to take this one.