After only 3 weeks of basketball, we have seen some very surprising teams, and some very surprising players. Here are the five players I believe have the best chance of making their first all star game.
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Through his first 4 seasons in the NBA, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has shown great potential. He has shown his great scoring ability, and an overall great skill set. Last season, it was debated by many if he should make the all star game, but this season I think he's the lead candidate for first time all star. Through 11 games played, Shai is averaging, 32.3 PPG, 4.5 REB, and 5.6 AST. I feel that Shai has proven to be a top 15 player in the NBA, and I'm very excited to see what the rest of the season has in store for him. He is definitely an all star caliber player.
(Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)
2. Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton was predicted to have a huge season, and he has not disappointed. He was included in the Pacers, and Kings trade last season including Buddy Hield, and Domantis Sabonis. This season, Haliburton is averaging, 21.6 PPG, 4.6 REB, and 9.9 AST. The Pacers aren't doing great this season, but I feel that he's proven to be one of the leagues best passers, and just a great all around player. He is definitely an all star caliber player.
(Dylan Buell/Getty)
3. De'Aaron Fox
Many believe that Fox has been playing on an all star caliber level for many years, and this year, I feel he has finally proven himself. The Kings haven't had the greatest start with a current record of 4-6, but Fox's play has been that of an all star. Thought 10 games, Fox is averaging 25.2 PPG, 5.0 PPG, and 5.1 AST. He is also shooting a career high 87% from the free throw line, and 36% from 3. I think it's time that Fox makes his first all star game.
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
4. Lauri Markkanen
Most people already know that the Utah Jazz have had a surprisingly remarkable season, even after trading Donovan Mitchell, and Rudy Gobert. A key piece to the Donovan Mitchell trade, was Lauri Markkanen. Before Utah, Markkanen has had an average NBA career playing for the bulls, and Cavs. Now in his 6th season in the league, Markkanen has shown some great improvement. He is averaging 22.7 PPG, 8.8 REB, and 2.5 AST. Surrounded by some great talent including, Jordan Clarkson, Mike Conley, Collin Sexton, and many more, the Jazz have shown to be one of the best teams in the west. I have no doubt that Lauri Markkanen will continue this good play, and be a first time all star.
(Photo by Jeff Swinger/NBAE via Getty Images)
5. Tyrese Maxey
This last spot was a difficult decision, as there is a lot of young talent in the NBA. After much thought, I feel that Tyrese Maxey is very deserving of the all star game. With Harden being injured, Maxey has stepped up as a great point guard for the Sixers. Through 12 games, Maxey is averaging 22.9 PPG, 3.6 REB, and 4.1 AST. Last season is when Maxey was able to take a leap and prove to us what he can do, and this season he is doing even better. I truly believe Maxey is an all star caliber player.
(Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Honorable Mentions: Anthony Edwards, Keldon Johnson, Devin Vassell
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