Ranking first-time NBA All-Stars by future potential

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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN – DECEMBER 18: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers runs down court during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum on December 18, 2021 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Cavaliers defeated the Bucks 119-90, Ranking first-time NBA All-Stars by future potential. 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 John Fisher/Getty Images) /

Ranking first-time NBA All-Stars by future potential: Jarrett Allen

Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen was a late addition to the festivities, chosen over Jaylen Brown for a spot when James Harden was forced to withdraw on Monday. That doesn’t make Allen any less deserving of the honor, though.

Paired up with rookie big man Evan Mobley, Allen has become a dominant force for the Cavs this season. The 23-year-old is posting a double-double -16.2 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. He’s also averaging 1.3 blocks.

Allen has emerged as one of the preeminent defenders in the NBA, alongside fellow young gun Mobley. His 103.6 defensive rating ranks fifth in the NBA, while his 3.0 defensive win shares rank fourth. He’s also been one of the top 17 shot blockers in the league for five consecutive seasons.

Allen’s consistency from the field is also something to behold. He’s hitting 66.6 percent of his field goals, good for second in the NBA; he’s ranked in the top eight in the category in each of the last four seasons. His true shooting percentage of 68.8 percent is second in the league.

Ironically, his shooting is what may ultimately cap his potential. The Cavs are proving this season that you can build a team around big men that can’t do a ton to space the floor. Is that a flash in the pan or a long-term victory for the team, though?

Allen could make a Marc Gasol-like pivot in his career and become a three-point shooter, but his effectiveness inside suggests it won’t be much of a focus for him. He’s attempted 10 three-pointers this season but has only hit one. He’s an 18.9 percent three-point shooter for his career.

Regardless, Allen has the ability to usher in a greater emphasis on traditional big men in the NBA. While he may not have the most potential of any first-time All-Star, he may have the most potential of any big man in the league.