What is the aim of the NBA All-Star Game? To showcase the talents of the league’s youngest players. This is their opportunity to shine, showing the world what they’re capable of.
The Rising Stars Challenge gives insight into the future of the NBA. This year, the playoff adopted a new style and, for the first time, comprised four teams of seven players competing in a three-game, single-elimination tournament. The same model will be assumed for the 2024 All-Star game, which, this year, will take place on Sunday 18th February.
Read on to discover more about the players set to feature in this year’s Rising Stars player pool.
1. Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers
At 22 years old, Haliburton is causing chaos on the court, and he’s only just getting started. When it comes to NBA scores 2023, the point guard, who plays for the Indiana Pacers, is averaging an impressive double-double with 19.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 10.1 assists, and 1.8 steals per game.
This crafty, sharpshooting player seldom makes a mistake on the court, which is one of the reasons he’s a favorite Rising Star.
2. Desmond Bane, Memphis Grizzlies
Bane has been given the perfect opportunity to demonstrate his deadeye accuracy and leadership skills – due to Ja Morant’s 25-game suspension.
He’s the player behind the Grizzlies increased field goal percentage, scoring, assists, and rebounds. He’s one of the reasons this team is, at long last, set to make some noise in the playoffs.
3. Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic
Crowned the Kia NBA Rookie of the Year, Banchero is set to shine at the All-Star’s game, he was after all responsible for Orlando’s impressive 29-28 finish after a mere 5-20 start.
Being picked will mean Banchero can improve his 3-point shooting consistency for his sophomore campaign, especially as he’ll gain access to the lab and the knowledge of Kevin Durant, the two-time Finals MVP.
Expect him to go head to head with the 2023 All-Stars still in the lineup, including Bam Adebayo, Joel Embiid, Giannis Antetokounmp, and Julius Randle.
4. Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat
Talking of Bam Adebayo, he’s most definitely a favorite to make an appearance at the All-Star’s game. The 25 Miami Heat center’s play is as impressive as his stature.
This will be his second All-Star appearance, which comes as little surprise as he’s currently averaging an impressive double-double with 21.6 points, 3.3 assists, 10.0 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game.
5. Jamal Murray, Denver Nuggets
Post Murray’s performance in the 2020 NBA bubble, the majority of NBA fans are at a loss as to why Murray hasn’t yet been picked to play in an All-Star Game. This year, however, could be his lucky one! Finally, the defending champion is fully recovered from his 2021 injury.
This talented 26-year-old start fast averages at 26 points, seven assists, five boards, and a title run. You need to keep in mind these scores are still in play, even though he’s been off court for two years. He is one in four players to achieve this momentous status!
6. Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
In the 2022-23 season, Brunson was an All-Star snub. Changing his tune, he has entered the current season in good stead, ready to take on the All Stars. His career-high 24 ppg, 6.2 apg, and 41.6% on 3-pointers makes him a top candidate. Then there is the incredible support from his fans he has to consider.
7. Mikal Bridges, Brooklyn Nets
With his elite scoring prowess and considerable consistency, the new player-participation policy isn’t anticipated to affect Bridges’ candidacy.
Averaging 26.1 points per game, this lockdown defender is a strong contender. The return of Ben Simmons could be just what Bridges needs to heighten his game play. In addition, the Nets will likely rely on Bridges to provide the majority of Brooklyn’s points.
When playing for his previous team, Phoenix, Bridges took on the responsibility of guarding the opposing team’s best player. The same is expected from him for the Brooklyn Nets. In addition, he’ll have the added responsibility on offense. If Bridges can handle this pressure for an entire season, he’s down to be a top pick for the All-Stars Game.
8. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
The 24-year-old Boston Celtics forward is another player set to hit the All-Star lineup. This will make this his fifth consecutive All-Star appearance – and it’s little wonder, with an average score of 30.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.0 steals per game.
The Bottom Line
Ahead of the infamous Rising Stars Challenge, Sporting News staff members will rank all NBA players competing in the Sunday night event. This ranking will be based on their future potential.
Those listed above are the rising stars to watch! Should they continue as they are doing so, it’s likely they’ll all make the line-up. Watch this space!
