We anticipate the 2024 NBA All-Star Game as we analyze potential starters for the Eastern and Western Conferences, forecasting the dazzling lineup of basketball’s elite.
The 2024 All-Star Game looms as a pivotal moment, drawing basketball enthusiasts into the realm of speculation and excitement mainly because of the fact we are going back to the favored East versus West Conference format. As we approach this dazzling showcase, it is time to predict the starters for both conferences.
The Eastern and Western Conferences, each boasting an abundance of talent and skill right now, will carefully select their starting lineups, igniting debates and discussions among fans and analysts alike. In the modern format where two backcourt and three frontcourt players will be chosen, we have the anticipated starting lineups and the relevant competition the starters will face in our 2024 predictions.
Eastern ConferenceGuard – Tyrese Maxey
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Possible Competition: Trae Young, Jalen Brunson, LaMelo Ball
In the Eastern Conference guard lineup, the breakout performance of Tyrese Maxey has been nothing short of extraordinary, adding an intriguing narrative to the All-Star selection process. Maxey has seamlessly stepped into a prominent scoring role for the second-seeded 76ers, responding to the trade of James Harden with a career-high 26.8 points per game. His remarkable story unfolds as he navigates his newfound status as a primary scorer alongside Joel Embiid.
However, the competition in the Eastern Conference is fierce, featuring established stars and emerging talents. Trae Young, with his offensive prowess, continues to be a perennial vote-earner, averaging 23.4 points and an impressive 11.1 assists per game. Jalen Brunson’s stellar season, boasting 24.2 points and 5.1 assists per game positions him as a strong candidate for his first All-Star appearance. LaMelo Ball, with averages of 25.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, is steadily evolving into a potential superstar although Maxey will capture most of the votes so far.
Guard – Donovan Mitchell
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Possible Competition: Tyrese Halliburton, Damian Lillard, Tyler Herro
Donovan Mitchell stands out as a scoring force for the second guard spot, averaging an impressive 29.2 points per game for the Cavaliers and solidifying his status as one of the premier shooting guards in the NBA. Mitchell’s offensive prowess, combined with his dynamic play, positions him as a clear choice for a starting spot in the All-Star Game. Behind Booker, he’s considered one of the most dominant natural shooting guards in the league when at the peak of his game.
The competition in the Eastern Conference guard lineup is formidable. Tyrese Haliburton, with his exceptional playmaking, averaging 11.6 assists per game with minimal turnovers, presents a unique and valuable skill set. Damian Lillard, despite a slightly down year by his superstar standards, retains his popularity and is likely to garner votes. Tyler Herro’s impressive scoring, averaging 22.9 points per game, adds another layer to the mix along with some popularity votes.
Forward – Jayson Tatum
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Possible Competition: Jimmy Butler, Scottie Barnes, Mikal Bridges
In the Eastern Conference frontcourt, Jayson Tatum emerges as a near-certain starter, solidifying his status as one of the NBA’s top-five players and a key contributor to the top-seeded Celtics. Tatum’s scoring prowess is evident, averaging an impressive 28.2 points per game, while he has seamlessly integrated new teammates Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis into the mix. His career-high 9.0 rebounds per game showcase his expanding impact on both ends of the court, making him a standout in the frontcourt selection.
The competition for the Eastern Conference frontcourt is formidable, featuring seasoned veterans and emerging talents. Jimmy Butler, with his competitive spirit and impactful play, is likely to generate All-Star votes, averaging 21.4 points per game for the season. Scottie Barnes, displaying versatility with averages of 20.1 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game, is making a case as an all-around budding star. Mikal Bridges, with his well-rounded contributions of 20.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, could secure his first All-Star appearance this season. As the frontcourt takes shape, the Eastern Conference promises a mix of established excellence and rising stars.
Forward – Giannis Antetokounmpo
Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Possible Competition: Domantas Sabonis, Julius Randle, Kyle Kuzma
Giannis Antetokounmpo stands as a virtual certainty to secure a starting spot, showcasing his dominance with averages of 30.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game on an impressive 62.1% shooting from the field. Giannis remains a force both inside and out, maintaining his exceptional play despite the arrival of Damian Lillard in Milwaukee. The Bucks, currently the third seed, benefit greatly from Giannis’s unparalleled skills.
While Giannis is the frontrunner, the competition in the Eastern Conference frontcourt is notable. Domantas Sabonis, with his well-rounded game, presents a strong case, averaging 20.0 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 7.2 assists per game, establishing himself as one of the most impactful big men in the East behind Joel Embiid. Julius Randle, a Knicks standout, is likely to garner votes due to his popularity and contributions, and Kyle Kuzma is having an effective season, averaging 23.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. As the frontcourt selection unfolds, the Eastern Conference promises a blend of established stars and emerging talents, with Giannis leading the charge.
Forward – Joel Embiid
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Possible Competition: Bam Adebayo, Kristaps Porzingis
No doubt, Joel Embiid stands as an indisputable candidate to secure a starting spot, boasting an MVP-worthy season with remarkable averages of 31.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game. Despite the absence of James Harden, Embiid has showcased his dominance, carrying the Sixers to the second seed and solidifying his position as one of the league’s most dominant players.
The competition in the Eastern Conference frontcourt is formidable, featuring standout performers and impactful defenders. Bam Adebayo, one of the best defenders in the league, is having an impressive season, averaging 22.8 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, making him a formidable competitor. Kristaps Porzingis, a newcomer to the Celtics, is contributing solidly with averages of 19.5 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, earning him recognition in the All-Star conversation. As the frontcourt selection unfolds, the Eastern Conference promises a showcase of elite talent, with Embiid leading the charge.
Western ConferenceGuard – Stephen Curry
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Possible Competition: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, De’Aaron Fox, Kyrie Irving
In the hotly contested Western Conference backcourt, the race for the starting guard position is undeniably fierce, with Stephen Curry standing as the current front-runner. With an astonishing 30.4 points per game and a remarkable 45.3% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc, Curry continues to showcase why he is widely regarded as the premier point guard in the NBA. However, lurking in the shadows are formidable contenders, including the explosive Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who boasts an impressive 29.6 points per game and has emerged as a strong candidate for the starting role.
While De’Aaron Fox and Kyrie Irving bring their own brand of elite scoring and ball-handling skills to the table, the sheer brilliance of Curry and Gilgeous-Alexander makes it a daunting challenge for them to unseat the current leaders. Barring unforeseen circumstances like an injury sidelining Curry, it appears that the Warriors’ maestro is poised to retain his status as the Western Conference’s starting guard.
Guard – Luka Doncic
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Possible Competition: Anthony Edwards, Devin Booker, Desmond Bane
The second guard position sees a clear standout in the form of Luka Doncic, who is undeniably having an MVP-caliber season. Averaging an impressive 30.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game for the 9-5 Dallas Mavericks, Doncic has solidified his position as a triple-double threat every time he steps onto the court. His one-man scoring machine capabilities make him a near-certain starter, barring any unforeseen injuries.
However, the competition in the West is nothing short of formidable as good as Doncic is. Anthony Edwards is rapidly ascending to superstardom, showcasing a scoring prowess with an average of 25.8 points per game. Despite Devin Booker’s limited games played (5 so far) due to injuries, his impact and reputation still make him a contender for votes as the weeks go by. Additionally, Desmond Bane’s breakout season, marked by a noteworthy 25.8 points per game, adds another layer to the competitive landscape.
Forward – LeBron James
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Possible Competition: Paul George, Brandon Ingram, Kawhi Leonard
The forward position is currently dominated by the ageless LeBron James, who, at nearly 39 years old, continues to defy expectations and maintain his status as one of the league’s top players. With impressive averages of 26.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game for the Lakers, James remains not only a statistical force but also one of the most iconic and popular figures in the NBA. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, he appears poised to secure a starting spot in the All-Star Game.
However, the competition is there, featuring standout players like Paul George, who is enjoying a stellar season as the Clippers’ primary contributor with 24.8 points per game. Brandon Ingram, consistently contributing across multiple categories with 24.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, adds another layer to the mix. Finally, Kawhi Leonard, despite a slightly down year with 21.0 points per game, remains a fan favorite and will likely command attention in the voting process. While the challengers are strong, LeBron James’ enduring brilliance positions him as the frontrunner for the starting forward role in the 2024 All-Star Game.
Forward – Kevin Durant
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Possible Competition: Pascal Siakam, Lauri Markkanen, Zion Williamson
The other forward position sees Kevin Durant emerge as a standout force, single-handedly carrying the Phoenix Suns with remarkable offensive prowess. Averaging an impressive 31.4 points per game on a scorching 49.2% shooting from beyond the arc, Durant has proven to be virtually unstoppable. His offensive dominance positions him as a strong contender for a starting spot in the 2024 All-Star Game.
While Pascal Siakam trails Durant in statistical output with averages of 19.4 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, the gap is considerable. Despite the popularity of players like Lauri Markkanen and Zion Williamson, who are sure to attract votes, Durant’s stellar performance makes it nearly guaranteed that he will secure a starting spot.
Forward – Nikola Jokic
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Possible Competition: Anthony Davis, Victor Wembanyama, Alperen Sengun, Karl-Anthony Towns
For the final frontcourt spot, Nikola Jokic stands as an undeniable force, making his case for yet another All-Star Game start with an MVP-caliber season. The Serbian sensation has been a maestro on the court, effortlessly contributing 27.4 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game, showcasing an unparalleled skill set that has propelled the Nuggets to the second seed in the West. Jokic’s dominance in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking solidifies his position as a frontrunner not just for an All-Star starting spot, but potentially for the coveted MVP award.
While Jokic’s starting role appears almost certain, the competition in the frontcourt is intriguing. Anthony Davis, known for his two-way prowess, presents a challenge with his well-rounded game and the fact that he plays for the Los Angeles Lakers. Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama is poised to receive significant votes, adding excitement to the selection process. Alperen Sengun’s breakout season, where he emulates a “mini Jokic” in impact, further spices up the competition. Karl-Anthony Towns, a perennial threat for the All-Star team, faces the challenge of sharing the spotlight with Anthony Edwards on his own team.
