With the NBA season past its halfway mark, projections for All-NBA teams highlight standout performers while accounting for the 65-game eligibility threshold. Injuries have sidelined several stars, narrowing the field for honors. Analysts predict a mix of established leaders and rising talents across the three teams.
The All-NBA selection process this year is complicated by a rule requiring players to appear in at least 65 games, eliminating some top talents early. Players like Joel Embiid, who has played only 27 of 47 games and faces a maximum of 62, Austin Reaves with 23 of 46, Jimmy Butler after 39 games due to a season-ending injury, and Franz Wagner with 26 of 46 are out of contention. Others, including Nikola Jokić (32 of 48 games, 66.7%), Giannis Antetokounmpo (30 of 46, 65.2%), and Victor Wembanyama (33 of 47, 70.2%), are not currently on pace but could still qualify.
Projections for the first team feature Jaylen Brown of the Celtics, averaging 29.4 points on 53/36/78 shooting splits, 6.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists, leading Boston's high-powered offense. Cade Cunningham of the Pistons posts 25.3 points, 9.7 assists, and leads the league in assists while anchoring Detroit's top Eastern Conference record. Luka Dončić, now with the Lakers, dominates with 33.6 points on 58/34/78 splits, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.7 assists, proving essential amid lineup issues. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder, the MVP frontrunner, scores 32 points on 61/39/89 splits, driving Oklahoma City's league-best record. Donovan Mitchell of the Cavaliers averages 29.4 points, stabilizing Cleveland's lineup with a 57-win pace when on the floor.
The second team includes Jalen Brunson of the Knicks (27.6 points, improved deep shooting), Kevin Durant of the Rockets (26.5 points, versatile scoring), Anthony Edwards of the Timberwolves (29.3 points, clutch efficiency), Tyrese Maxey of the 76ers (29.4 points, speed-driven attacks), and Jamal Murray of the Nuggets (25.9 points, career-best shooting).
Third-team picks are Deni Avdija of the Trail Blazers (25.8 points, league-leading drives), Scottie Barnes of the Raptors (19.4 points, all-around defense), Devin Booker of the Suns (25.4 points, offensive gravity), Julius Randle of the Timberwolves (22.2 points, efficient playmaking), and Chet Holmgren of the Thunder (17.8 points, rim protection). On the bubble are Jalen Duren, James Harden, Jalen Johnson, Michael Porter Jr., and Alperen Şengün, each showing strong but borderline cases.
These projections reflect a season of depth and disruption, with eligible players stepping up to fill gaps left by injuries.