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Top 10 Candidates To Be First-Time All-Stars In 2017

By Justin Rowan

Apr 13, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) backs up to the basket against New Orleans Pelicans forward James Ennis (4) in the second half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 13, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) backs up to the basket against New Orleans Pelicans forward James Ennis (4) in the second half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 26, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka (9) stands on the court prior to the game against the Golden State Warriors in game five of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
May 26, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka (9) stands on the court prior to the game against the Golden State Warriors in game five of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Serge Ibaka

The Orlando Magic are certainly hoping that Serge Ibaka takes the next step this season. After moving a considerable amount of their future for the big man, the Magic are hoping that Ibaka can be the difference between making and missing the playoffs.

Ibaka gives new head coach Frank Vogel a defensive anchor for the teams young core. Ibaka had grown disenfranchised in Oklahoma City over the past few seasons. Speaking towards how a lack of touches has lead to a decline in desire to try on the defensive side of the floor.

While Ibaka hasn’t shown an ability to be a dominant force on the offensive end, some increase in scoring paired with the Magic being in position to make playoffs by the All-Star break would likely earn him some favorable votes.

Like Wiggins, it seems unlikely that the Magic will be a lock as a playoff team and the forward depth in the East will likely keep him out.

Next: Looking on the Whiteside