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4 rising talents who could become a first-time NBA All-Star in 2023

By Donald Hamilton

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards and Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports)
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards and Toronto Raptors forward Scottie Barnes (Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports) /
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NBA All-Star
Detroit Pistons rookie Cade Cunningham (Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports) /

First-time NBA All-Star candidates: Cade Cunningham

From the 2020 No. 1 pick in Edwards to the 2021 No. 1 pick in Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham. If dynamic and exhilarating is what describes Edwards, poised and methodical is what I would use to describe Cunningham. Despite the Pistons’ poor record last season, the star rookie averaged 17.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game. He did only shoot 43% from the field and 32% from three, which will have to improve along with his production in order to make the rare jump as an All-Star in just his second season.

The Pistons will also have to improve their record in the Eastern Conference from being in the gutter of the NBA to potentially a play-in or playoff team. Cunningham is as poised as they come, never fearing the big moment and always making the right play. He’s a huge lead guard at 6-foot-8 who can see over the defense and has a solid post-up game for such a young player.

If Cunningham can improve his efficiency and help be the catalyst to help the Pistons make a run for the playoffs, he’ll easily find himself as an All-Star this season and should make for an exciting young backcourt with Jaden Ivey. Stand up, Motown!