The NBA All-Star Game is always a highlight, showcasing the league’s brightest talents. While established superstars regularly make the cut, a thrilling part of each season is seeing which new faces earn their first-ever All-Star nod. The selection process is a mix of fan, player, and media votes for starters, followed by conference coaches picking reserves, and finally, the commissioner stepping in for injury replacements. This system can sometimes lead to deserving players missing out, especially as coaches often prioritize team success (win-loss records). However, it also creates opportunities for breakout stars. Last year, five players – Victor Wembanyama, Evan Mobley, Cade Cunningham, Jalen Williams, and Alperen Sengun – debuted as All-Stars, proving that new talents frequently emerge. As we look ahead to 2026, here are 10 individuals who are strongly positioned to make their first All-Star appearance.
💪 Frontcourt Forces and Defensive Anchors
Chet Holmgren of the Thunder is a strong candidate who was close to making it last year. As the Thunder continue their rise as champions and top contenders, there’s a good chance they could have a third All-Star. Holmgren’s challenge lies in the deep pool of talented big men in the Western Conference, including Nikola Jokić, Anthony Davis, Victor Wembanyama, and Alperen Sengun. It might take some unexpected situations to clear a path for him, but his all-around game makes him a deserving name. Another powerful big man, Ivica Zubac from the Clippers, has consistently delivered double-doubles throughout his career. Last season, he truly stood out, playing significant minutes and averaging 16.8 points and 12.6 rebounds. He even led the league in both offensive and defensive rebounds and earned a spot on the All-Defensive Second Team, highlighting his immense impact, particularly on defense.
✨ Dynamic Wings Eyeing Eastern Conference Spots
For the Eastern Conference, OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges of the Knicks are both strong two-way players who were also on last year’s ‘potential’ list. With some notable All-Stars like Jayson Tatum (Celtics), Tyrese Haliburton (Pacers), and Damian Lillard (Bucks) potentially missing from this season’s roster, there are clear opportunities. The key for Anunoby and Bridges will be to consistently perform at a high level alongside Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns without splitting too many votes between themselves. Meanwhile, Franz Wagner of the Magic, who recently turned 24, is another exciting prospect. His teammate Paolo Banchero made his All-Star debut in 2024, and Wagner could follow suit. While he scores well, averaging 24.2 points last season, improving his three-point accuracy (29.5% last season) will be crucial for his case. Both Wagner and the Magic are set for significant improvement.
🔥 Playoff Performers and Scoring Prowess
Jamal Murray of the Nuggets, a renowned playoff performer with a championship ring, might surprise some by not yet being an All-Star. While his teammate Nikola Jokić has been the Nuggets’ sole All-Star for all seven of his selections, Murray’s consistent clutch play and high-level scoring are undeniable. If the Nuggets’ offseason adjustments lead to further team success, Murray could very well join Jokić on the All-Star stage. Another player whose star has been steadily rising is Norman Powell of the Heat. After two seasons as a contender for the Sixth Man of the Year award, he became a full-time starter last season, averaging over 20 points per game. His impressive 41.9% three-point shooting over the past four seasons, combined with his recent trade to Miami, could see him thrive in an expanded role. At 32, Powell would be among the older first-time All-Stars, showcasing his perseverance.
🚀 Young Talents and Athletic Twins on the Rise
Jaden McDaniels of the Timberwolves has grown alongside Anthony Edwards since their rookie year in 2020. While not as flashy as Edwards, McDaniels has steadily increased his offensive contributions under coach Chris Finch while maintaining his elite defensive versatility, capable of guarding any position. Conference coaches often favor such impactful defensive players from winning teams, making McDaniels a strong dark horse candidate if the Timberwolves maintain their strong record. Finally, the incredibly athletic twin duo, Amen Thompson of the Rockets and Ausar Thompson of the Pistons, both show immense promise. If either brother significantly develops a more reliable offensive game, they could join their respective All-Star teammates, Alperen Sengun or Cade Cunningham, as their team’s second All-Star representative. Amen has already participated in All-Star weekend events like the Rising Stars Challenge, and the dream of twin All-Stars, last achieved by Dick and Tom Van Arsdale in the early 1970s, could become a reality.
