As the NBA season continues, some players have quickly solidified their All-Star cases through these first few weeks of action. Austin Reaves continues to dazzle with performance metrics that jump off the page. At the same time, up-and-comers such as Chet Holmgren and Josh Giddey are putting together compelling arguments for a highly desired place in the All-Star game. Though the season is still young, anticipation is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are counting down to see how these new faces will impact the fortunes of their respective teams and the league overall.
Over the first two weeks of the season, Austin Reaves has otherworldly improvement on full display, averaging 32.0 points per game. He’s had a heck of a season, highlighted by leading the entire NBA in free throws made, with an astounding 10.2 makes per game. Paolo Banchero, their leading scorer, is out with injury. This has afforded Reaves an opportunity to showcase his playmaking ability for the Orlando Magic, who sit at a surprising 16-9 atop the Eastern Conference without him. Reaves’ ability to step up in critical moments has positioned him as a strong candidate for an All-Star selection this year.
Emerging Talents
Now Austin Reaves isn’t the only player creating buzz. Chet Holmgren has quickly become one of the leading candidates. He continues to display his accuracy from deep, shooting 42% from beyond the arc. Holmgren’s blocks per game have seen a notable drop to 1.3, almost a block lower than in his first two years. As minor as his defensive impact may be, his offensive contributions are impossible to overlook. His versatility and ability to stretch the floor increase the value he brings to his team significantly.
The other player dominating headlines has been Josh Giddey, who is currently enjoying career-highs in almost every statistical category. Now, he’s putting up 22 points, 8.8 rebounds and 8.0 assists a night. He is currently shooting a career-high 45.5% from 3-point range. Giddey’s all-around playmaking capabilities make him an intriguing candidate for the All-Star game as he continues to improve his performance.
That emergence of Amen Thompson also gives plenty of intrigue to this All-Star hopefuls list. He’s on a great roll to start the season! He’s putting up 21.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists — on 43.8% shooting from deep, no less. Thompson dazzles on offense and defense. Watch out as the season rolls on, though—he’ll be one to watch!
Established Stars Seeking Recognition
Though new faces certainly are making their mark, established players still have to put them on notice. Jamal Murray is one of the most interesting players. He averages 26.0 points per game and shoots 39.4% from three-point territory through the first month of the season, and he’s never made an All-Star team. Notably, his playoff scoring average of 23.8 points is higher than that of legends like Wilt Chamberlain and James Harden, underscoring his talent and contribution to the Denver Nuggets.
Players such as Jalen Johnson are taking advantage of opportunities that have presented themselves through injuries on their teams. With Trae Young out with an MCL sprain, Johnson’s assist rate will jump through the roof, as will his usage. As of this writing, he’s putting up a career-high 20.8 points on efficient shooting. With a blistering 58% shooting percentage, he turns into a safe dynamic weapon as he ascends into a more prominent role.
Factors Influencing All-Star Selections
The dynamics of this NBA season have provided various players with chances to showcase their skills and potentially secure an All-Star berth. The absence of key players due to injuries has allowed emerging talents like Reaves and Johnson to step into more prominent roles on their teams.
Additionally, performances at the beginning of the season are especially important as they help to establish the mood for the rest of the season. A player’s ability to outperform their baseline stats will be important in making arguments for or against a player as a prospective All-Star.
Franz Wagner’s been carving up the league this season. He’s having the best efficiency of his career, with a sky-high 43.3% from three that’s probably not sustainable going forward. Although it is too early to tell if that kind of performance is reproducible, you cannot underestimate the impact that Wagner has made.
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