Top 5 NBA players who could make their first All-Star appearance this season, featuring Anthony Edwards, Desmond Bane, and more
The 2023 All-Star Game is months away, but some players have shown that this season could be their first time playing in the game.
Let's break down the top five candidates for the event in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards finished last season averaging 21.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists. His numbers were impressive, and him not being an All-Star was somewhat questionable.
However, being an All-Star in one's second season isn't an easy task. Edwards now has a real opportunity to become an All-Star for a few different reasons. He should average around 23-25 points per game, and the Timberwolves could be a top four team in the Western Conference.
If the Timberwolves can be in the top five, he should get the nod with Karl-Anthony Towns and Rudy Gobert.
Desmond Bane
Some might call it a long shot, because Desmond Bane likely won't average enough points to be an All-Star this season. He averaged 18.2 ppg last season and showed promise of potentially being a No. 2 on a championship team.
Bane has gotten off to an insane start this season, averaging 24.2 ppg. He's also scored 30-plus points in three games in a row.
Memphis should be a top team in the Western Conference, and if a second new player is going to be named an All-Star, Bane should be the one getting the nod.
Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton is a star in the making and has a real chance of becoming an All-Star this season. He averaged 17.5 ppg in 2021-22 with the Indiana Pacers and is now averaging 23.4.
The season isn't even 10 games old, but Haliburton has been incredible for Indiana. He's shooting 50.0%, including 46.7% from 3-point range.
What could hold him back is the fact that Indiana isn't a very good team. However, if he keeps playing as he has, he could find himself playing in Utah during All-Star week.
Tyrese Maxey
Let's stay with the Tyrese name here and add the 21-year-old Philadelphia 76ers star. Tyrese Maxey is someone who can win the Most Improved Player Award this season. If the first few games of the season are any indication, he's in a good spot.
While currently averaging 22.6 points per game, Maxey is also shooting 50.4%, including 46.8% from 3-point range.
It's possible that he will get lost because of Joel Embiid and James Harden, but three All-Stars from the 76ers wouldn't be out of the ordinary.
Jalen Brunson
Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks have played some impressive basketball this season. He came in and was expected to run the offense, which he's done well so far.
However, he's only averaging 18.2 ppg. It's tough to say that fans and voters will vote for him when he's averaging less than 20. However, right now, he should be an All-Star if his play continues.