Every year we see improvements in players that propel them to become an NBA All-Star. No matter what you think about the All-Star selection process or the game, it’s still one of the best accolades you can get as an NBA player.
We saw first time All-Stars last season with Tyrese Haliburton, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Lauri Markkanen. Each of those players made improvements in their games, whether it was scoring, defense, or all the above. It’s going to be interesting to see which players take that next step this upcoming season…
Let’s get into some more 1st time All-Stars we can expect in the 2023-24 season…
(Not including rookies, so please Wembanyama fans, calm down)
Bennedict Mathurin, SG, Indiana Pacers
Bennedict Mathurin was seen as one of the leading candidates for ROTY award this past season. Although he didn’t start for majority of the season, Mathurin showed flashes why the Pacers drafted him at #6. His ability to get to the rim, draw fouls, and show an edge and toughness on both ends of the ball.
When playing 30+ minutes in a game in his rookie year, Mathurin averaged more than 20 points a game. Adding him into the starting lineup will guarauntee at least the 30 points and also including in growth in his game this offseason, expect Mathurin to push for an All-Star spot in the Eastern conference.
Projected statline: 24.5 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 2.5 APG, 44.6% FG, 36.3% 3PT
Jamal Murray, PG, Denver Nuggets
I mean this might one of the more obvious choices on this list. Jamal Murray showed flashes over and over again, when healthy, he’s one of the best scorers in the league in the playoffs. The thing is, Murray doesn’t necessarily light the world on fire in the regular season, but in the playoffs is another animal. I think Murray puts up an elite scoring season this upcoming year to gain the respect that he deserves.
I’m not saying he’s going to average 30 a game out the gates, but I expect him to increase his scoring and the NBA media give him the respect he deserves. It’s not easy to be the bonafide #2 option on a championship team and Murray has proven he’s that and more.
Projected statline: 26.7 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 5.5 APG, 46.1% FG, 37.1% 3PT
Paolo Banchero, PF, Orlando Magic
The reigning ROTY Paolo Banchero showed exactly why the Magic drafted him #1 overall. He used his size, power, and versatility on the offensive end to score the ball. Although he wasn’t as efficient as a rookie, Banchero flashed abilities to take over as the #1 option on the Magic.
I fully expect Banchero to spend this offseason to improve his shooting and becoming more effective out of the post. Not only did Banchero show scoring flashes, but also playmaking.
Nonetheless, I expect Banchero to fully take his game to another level in his sophomore year. Don’t be surprised if he becomes an All-NBA player.
Projected statline: 25.3 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 4.5 APG, 47.3% FG, 34.5% 3PT
Mikal Bridges, SF, Brooklyn Nets
Being traded to the Nets was the best thing that could’ve happened to Mikal and it showed. Mikal Bridges was seen as an off-ball offensive player that is more of a 3 & D wing. Well… he shot that down pretty fast. Mikal in 27 games with the Nets averaged 26.1 PPG shooting very efficiently, 47.5% from the field and 37.6% from three.
It’s almost inevitable that Bridges takes his game to ANOTHER level after a full offseason with the Nets. Bridges showed he can be a #1 option on a team after being barely a 3rd/4th option on the Suns. If there’s one player I’m rooting for to go off on this list, it’s going to be Mikal Bridges.
Projected statline: 27.8 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 3.2 APG, 46.4% FG, 37.7% 3PT
