Every season consists of breakout players who finally make their mark in the league. These individuals often return from injury, are rewarded with a bigger role, or are provided with a change of scenery that becomes a breath of fresh air. Jalen Brunson, Paolo Banchero, Tyrese Haliburton, and Anthony Edwards were a few players last season who continued to take their game to the next level, becoming either All-Stars, All-NBA, or MVP candidates.
While those individuals will continue to be names to watch heading into the next season, several other players could breakout next season, becoming first-time All-Stars. Below, we analyze which potential rising stars will be first-time All-Stars for next season for their respective teams and conferences.
Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder
Better known as 'J-Dub', Jalen Williams emerged as one of the league's best, young players. His rookie season was one of the best in his class, averaging 14 points, five rebounds, three assists, and over a steal per game. His sophomore campaign was a major step forward, averaging 19 points, four rebounds, and five assists. One of the biggest improvements in Williams' game was his efficiency, shooting 54 percent (up from 52 percent) and 43 percent from three (up seven percent).
'J-Dub' was an asset on both ends for the Thunder, often guarding the team's second or third-best player while Lu Dort handled primary defender responsibilities. Williams' first postseason was flawless, averaging 19 points, seven rebounds, and five assists, shooting 47 percent, 39 percent from three, and 82 percent on free throws. Williams ran out of gas at the end of the postseason, but the Thunder appeared to prioritize its core, including Williams' usage moving forward.
The acquisition of Alex Caruso enables Oklahoma City to deploy one of the best defensive units in the league with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Caruso, Dort, Williams, and Chet Holmgren as the likely closing lineup for the Thunder. Poised to remain amongst the league's best teams, Oklahoma City will need a big season from Jalen Williams to contend for a title in 2024-25. The Thunder could become one of the league's deepest teams with the capability of sending several players to the All-Star game.