Players Who Will Be Potential First Time All-Stars This Season

Jordan Poole

Poole was recently traded to the Wizards in a three-way blockbuster trade involving Chris Paul and averaged 20.4 points per game this past season. Despite his abysmal playoff showing, especially against the Lakers, Poole has improved his stats season-by-season, and he has been a decent shooter and is one of the best free-throw shooters in the league. Poole is one of the most entertaining players in the league and plays with swagger for days and will immediately rejuvenate a Wizards team currently looking for a fresh start after trading Bradley Beal. Therefore, as the face of the franchise, Poole will take his game to the next level and finally be able to reach the February Classic for the first time in his career.

Paolo Banchero

Banchero won Rookie of the Year after averaging 20 points per game and helping the Magic complete a major improvement from the previous year. Banchero is the cornerstone player for a rising young Magic squad and uses a combination of strength and fluidity to score on his opponents. Though Banchero is listed as a Power Forward, he plays more like a Small Forward because he has the strength of a big but the movement and skillset of a guard. As the Magic matures their roster, Banchero will have an even stronger second season, further prove himself as one of the NBA’s best young talents, and be recognized as a serious All-Star Candidate.

Mikal Bridges

Bridges has been electric for the Nets since he was traded there mid-season. However, he was always recognized as a lanky two-way player best known for using his length to his advantage on the defensive end. Bridges offensive game is consistently improving throughout his career, which he demonstrated when he averaged 26.1 points per game across 27 games for the Nets and 20.1 points per game for the season. Bridges also uses his athleticism to run the floor, catch lobs on fast breaks, and glide past defenders on his way to the basket. Expect Bridges to play out of his mind this upcoming season as he levels up his output and becomes a legitimate candidate for the All-Star Game.

Jamal Murray

Murray needs little introduction as he was the spark for a Nuggets squad that cruised to their first Championship in franchise history. Murray averaged 20 points per game in the regular season and 26.1 points per game in the playoffs and has done both with consistent efficiency. Murray showed his ability to take over games with his shooting single-handedly and used his size to bully smaller defenders. At the rate that Murray is playing, he will be a no-doubt selection for the NBA All-Star Game next season.

Keldon Johnson

Johnson had a breakout year for the Spurs this season, averaging 22 points per game. Although the Spurs had a bad season, Johnson has consistently been an all-around solid player who can pass to teammates, shoot from anywhere on the court, and uses his athleticism to attack the rim and make crucial defensive plays. The Spurs will be a team to watch this season, especially if Johnson continues to improve his game and Wembanyama joins the team. The Spurs can make a serious playoff push next season, which is why Johnson should be a player to watch in next season’s All-Star Game Voting.