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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 11, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts (right) instructs guard C.J. McCollum (3) against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter in game five of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
May 11, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Portland Trail Blazers head coach Terry Stotts (right) instructs guard C.J. McCollum (3) against the Golden State Warriors during the second quarter in game five of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

6. C.J. McCollum

The Portland Trail Blazers were one of the more notable feel-good stories in the league last season. The team managed to grab the fifth seed in the West, despite projections of being a bottom-feeder. One of the main reasons for their success was the strong play of their backcourt.

The tandem of Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum placed itself firmly in the conversation for best backcourt in the league last season. The Blazers made a few moves in free agency, but none that should cut into the production of either guard in a meaningful way.

McCollum’s ability to create for himself and others, as well as space the floor, is key to Portland’s success. Should he build upon his numbers from last season, he’d be tough to overlook for the All-Star team.

The key for Portland will be sustaining the success of last season and being in a good position heading into the break. The team overachieved last season in the eyes of many. Despite strong play, Lillard was not selected to the All-Star team.

Making it to the conference semifinals last season turned some heads last season. But if Portland wants to build upon that and have two All-Stars, a strong start next season is essential.

Next: Big Three In L.A.