We've officially reached the halfway point of the season, which means it's time to make our 2024 NBA All-Star predictions.
Hopefully we'll be watching one of the greatest All-Star Games ever, even though we already know the game isn't exactly a defensive clinic and the intensity may not be there. That's why, sometimes, we need to see some first-time stars reignite the fire and prove their interest.
Five players deserve the All-Star award
However, this time, we will talk about those who may not get approved. Either because of how stacked their positions are, playing in a small market, or thriving on a losing team, these guys will likely be watching the festivities from home.
Alperin Singun
There's no such thing as another Nikola Jokic, but if there was, he'd probably look like Albrin Singun. The Houston Rockets big man has taken a huge leap forward this season, showing off his playmaking skills, improving as a rim protector, and even putting up some impressive scoring numbers from time to time.
So far, Sengun is averaging 21.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 4.9 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.6 three-pointers per game on nearly 54% from the floor. He is difficult to guard during the catch and seems to have eyes in the back of his head. However, the Rockets are 11th in the West and are not very popular.
Kid Cunningham
Cade Cunningham is currently out with an injury, but even if he isn't, there's no chance he'll become an All-Star. It's nothing personal; It's just that he plays for a Detroit Pistons team that is on pace to set a record for the most losses in a single regular season, and you can't reward that.
The former No. 1 overall pick has been on a tear this season, despite being the lone bright spot for Monty Williams' squad. Cunningham filled up the stat sheet averaging 22.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.9 three-pointers per game on 45% from the floor.
Jalen Brunson
It's difficult to evaluate a player like Jalen Brunson. He's not a superstar by any means, but he's certainly an All-Star caliber player. Then again, he's stuck in a bind where he's considered a very good player, but he's no better or more popular than other Eastern Conference guards who would certainly get the nod ahead of him.
However, he has been the offensive catalyst for the New York Knicks this season once again. So far, the Villanova product is averaging 25.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 6.4 assists per game, leading the way in the clutch and leading the way for Tom Thibodeau's squad.
Therese Maxey
Tyrese Haliburton could win the Haliburton vs. Maxey debate in the All-Star race. I mean, it's impossible to ignore the guy who leads the league in assists per game, even if it also means cutting out the second most promising young guard in the Eastern Conference.
Tyrese Maxey was the perfect second-in-command to Joel Embiid, and he led the Philadelphia 76ers to multiple wins without being named MVP. So far, the fourth-year pro is averaging 26.1 points to go along with 6.7 dimes and 3.2 threes per contest.
Victor Wembanyama
We will definitely see Victor Wimbanyama in the Rising Stars match and perhaps even in the skills competition, but he should also be part of the actual game. He's already one of the best defensive players in the league.
As with Cunningham, we cannot reward a player who is part of one of the worst teams ever at the Etihad. However, Wembanyama was very solid on his own, averaging 19.8 points, 10.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.1 steals, 1.5 three-pointers, and 3.1 blocks per game in the league.
