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4 youngsters who could make their first NBA All-Star game

By Elaine Blum

Nov 10, 2021; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzles guard Ja Morant (12) dribbles as Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (2) defends during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 10, 2021; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzles guard Ja Morant (12) dribbles as Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (2) defends during the first half at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports /
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4 youngsters who could make their first NBA All-Star game
CLEVELAND, OHIO – JANUARY 02: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates after scoring during the third quarter against the Indiana Pacers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on January 02, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Pacers 108-104, 4 youngsters who could make their first NBA All-Star game. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

Youngsters who could make their first NBA All-Star game: 3. Jarrett Allen

The 23-year-old Center for the Cleveland Cavaliers is making his quiet All-Star case by averaging 16.3 points and 10.9 rebounds this season while shooting 69.5 from the field.

With a strong team of young players, the Cavaliers are sitting at the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference with a streak of five consecutive wins and currently have the third-best defense in the entire league.

Allen is not only contributing to this success offensively but is especially important for the team’s defensive prowess. He averages 11.5 contested shots per game and is developing into one of the most dangerous rim protectors in the NBA. Allen will also likely be a candidate for an All-Defensive team.

The young big man, who is often underrated and probably one of the most unexpected All-Star candidates, is also in the running for the Most Improved Player award.

Due to his improvement and recent performances, Allen is in sixth place in the Eastern Conference’s frontcourt fan voting. He is competing with experienced All-Stars such as Kevin Durant, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Emiid though, which will make it challenging to score a spot on the team.

Allen will not be a starter, but his chances of being a reserve, wildcard, or injury replacement are real, especially considering the game is in Cleveland.