The All-Star Game may just seem like one game where the 24 best players in the league showcase their talents in front of millions of fans. For the players, this achievement means a ton because they are able to receive certain financial incentives and further burnish their reputations. Since the regular season tipped nearly two weeks ago, there have been individuals who are exceeding expectations already.
With five new NBA All-Stars last season, there is a huge possibility for the league to match or even exceed that number for this 2021-22 campaign. Young studs have continued ascending at a faster pace compared to previous draft classes, increasing the number of new All-Star selections.
Here are four highly likely first-time All-Stars for this season.
Ja Morant
After leading Memphis to a playoff berth last season, Ja Morant has elevated his repertoire this season by adding a consistent three-pointer and increasing his defensive skill set. His scoring average has increased to 28.7 points per game from 19.1 last season, while his rates of steals and threes have more than doubled.
The Grizzlies are off to a 3-3 start, but Morant's phenomenal performance against powerhouse teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors has taken the league by storm. Morant tallied 40 points and 10 assists against the Lakers despite his last-second missed free throw, while he recorded 30 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and four steals at Chase Center. Even if its just early in the season, Morant possesses the razzle-dazzle for coaches to include him on the Western Conference squad this season.
LaMelo Ball
Despite a couple of injuries, the Charlotte Hornets are off to a hot 4-2 start because of the exciting tandem of LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges. They are one of the most-watched teams on NBA League Pass because of the highlight passes of Ball and rim-rattling jams of Bridges. Even if Bridges may fail to sustain his eye-popping numbers for the whole season, Ball is still likely to represent the Hornets at the All-Star Game.
Similar to Morant, Ball is the type of creative playmaker who will thrive in the All-Star setting. His passing abilities will unlock the high-flying dunks of other possible Eastern Conference teammates like Zach LaVine or Jaylen Brown. Along with that Ball also brings a reliable three-point shot, which is a facet that fans always look forward to in this February contest.
Tobias Harris
The Philadelphia 76ers are having a tumultuous season because of all the Ben Simmons news, but Tobias Harris has been a consistent positive for the organization. His game is not flashy, but he's a three-level scorer who also defends at an above-average level. He is averaging close to 20 points per game while adding nine rebounds and 4.2 assists.
His efficiency is admirable as his field goal percentage is at 54.3% and he commits just 1.5 turnovers per game. Harris has increased his assists production because of the absence of Simmons, which is instrumental if the 76ers will be able to achieve a deep playoff run this season. Harris has the track record to prove his consistency and reliability that will prompt the coaches to select him to his first All-Star Game.
CJ McCollum
Despite the abysmal start by Damian Lillard, the Portland Trail Blazers still have a decent record because of the sensational all-around performances by CJ McCollum. His shooting is at its top form, averaging 4.4 made threes per game on a difficult array of attempts. The surprising aspect of his game has been his fantastic defense as he has been averaging 1.8 steals and 1.6 blocks per game.
The guard roster for the Western Conference is deep, but the tough starts of individuals such as Russell Westbrook and Devin Booker may just propel McCollum to his first All-Star appearance. The tough part is for the coaches to select two Blazers guards in Lillard and McCollum, but if McCollum continues his fabulous play, he will be able to reach this milestone.
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