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NBA's Rising First-Time All-Star Candidates for 2027 Season

  • Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks: Averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists last season, including a 51-point game at 19. Flagg’s final 26 games saw averages of 25.2 points, 7.2 boards, and 5.3 assists. With Kyrie Irving back, his efficiency could improve, potentially pushing him toward an All-Star nod. The main challenge remains the team's overall success, which impacts voter decisions.
  • Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets: Started last season strong with 20.3 points and 45.2% shooting from three before injury. His ability to score off the dribble and defend well makes him a solid candidate if he stays healthy and gets enough opportunities.
  • Austin Reaves, Los Angeles Lakers: Averaged 23.3 points last year and showed he can excel alongside Luka Dončić or take over in his absence. Defensive consistency will be key for Reaves to secure a spot among the league’s best.
  • Amen Thompson, Houston Rockets: Known for his defense and improving offensive numbers (18.3 points per game), Thompson is poised for an All-Star appearance. He must, however, develop a more reliable jump shot to stay relevant offensively.
  • Franz Wagner, Orlando Magic: Averaged 20.6 points but his three-point shooting remains a concern. If his jumper improves, Wagner’s scoring could jump significantly given his all-around skills.
  • Coby White, Charlotte Hornets: Showed bursts of high scoring and playmaking in limited minutes without LaMelo Ball. The question is whether he can maintain or build on that level consistently.

Players Close to Breaking Through

  • Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Atlanta Hawks: Nearly doubled his scoring last season to 20.8 points. His shooting and versatility are strengths, though he needs to improve isolation and pick-and-roll scoring to push further.
  • Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs: An elite defender and capable scorer who posted a 40-point triple-double. Improving his pull-up shooting would elevate his status beyond just an All-Star contender.
  • Keyonte George, Utah Jazz: Posted 23.6 points with good efficiency. Improvement on defense is necessary to fully capitalize on his offensive upside.
  • Josh Giddey, Chicago Bulls: Averaged near triple-double stats last season. Defensive gains and team success will influence his chances for All-Star recognition.
  • Brandon Miller, Charlotte Hornets: Scored efficiently in LaMelo’s absence but recovering from shoulder surgery might affect his growth.
  • Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans: A sharp shooter who continues to develop his ability to create offense off the dribble. Team success could limit his All-Star chances despite strong personal stats.

Potential Dark Horses

  • OG Anunoby, New York Knicks: Strong defense and a championship-level performance suggest All-Star potential if his scoring volume increases.
  • Desmond Bane, Orlando Magic: Could see increased usage under new coaching, boosting his scoring and playmaking.
  • Walker Kessler, Los Angeles Lakers: Dominant rim protector with emerging offensive skills; needs a breakout offensive year to stand out.
  • Michael Porter Jr., Brooklyn Nets: Posted All-Star level numbers before the break last season but sharing touches may limit output.
  • Payton Pritchard, Boston Celtics: Showed strong scoring without Jaylen Brown but uncertain role and competition for shots may hold him back.
  • Ivica Zubac, Indiana Pacers: Could thrive in pick-and-rolls with Tyrese Haliburton but faces competition for touches on a crowded roster.

Long Shots Worth Watching

  • Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers: Strong defense and floor spacing capabilities but needs sustained minutes to prove All-Star worthiness.
  • Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs: Improved shooting late last season and finals scoring; limited touches could restrict growth.
  • Kon Knueppel, Charlotte Hornets: Elite shooter with potential for higher usage but hamstring injury slows preseason start.
  • Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota Timberwolves: Top defender who could take on more scoring responsibility if supported by teammates.
  • Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons: Excellent defender but needs to develop outside shooting to boost offensive impact.
  • Derrick White, Boston Celtics: Elite defender and passer who must regain previous shooting form to compete for All-Star selection.

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