The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is still more than two months away, yet several players are already positioning themselves for a first career selection.
First-time All-Star Watch
Zach Harper of The Athletic listed eight leading candidates. In the Eastern Conference, he singled out Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey, Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson, Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren and Miami Heat guard Norman Powell. Out West, the spotlight fell on Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves, Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija, Oklahoma City Thunder big man Chet Holmgren and Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray.
ESPN’s Zach Kram ranked the field into “near-locks” and “on the bubble,” naming Duren as the lone player from that group who is close to assured of a spot. Giddey, Johnson and Powell earned strong consideration but did not reach near-lock status.
Murray’s path remains uncertain because of a crowded Western Conference field. Kram noted that even a career-best first half might not be enough for one of the 12 roster slots. However, the NBA will allocate eight international berths and could add injury replacements, giving the Canadian guard additional avenues to an appearance.
G League to NCAA Pipeline
Lindsay Schnell of The Athletic examined how recent rule adjustments now allow former G League players to regain NCAA eligibility. College coaches are navigating a recruiting landscape that suddenly includes professionals returning to amateur play.
“At the end of the day, we’re not the ones making decisions,” Baylor head coach Scott Drew said. “We either adapt to the rules or we get left behind. So until something changes, I guess all of us are watching G League games now.”
Slow Starts for Off-Season Movers
ESPN analyst Kevin Pelton investigated why several notable players who switched teams over the summer have posted below-expected shooting numbers. His research cites unfamiliarity with new systems and teammates as a key factor in early inefficiency.
Pelton highlighted Brooklyn Nets forward Cameron Johnson, Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane and Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner, noting that historical data suggests their production should improve as chemistry builds.
Source: Hoops Wire
