CBS Sports has released early picks for the 2025-26 NBA All-NBA teams and All-Star rosters based on the first 20-plus games. The selections highlight standout performances from players like Nikola Jokić and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading the All-NBA First Team. Factors such as advanced metrics, team records, and format changes influence the choices.
The 2025-26 NBA season is underway, and with over 20 games played, projections for All-NBA and All-Star honors are taking shape. All-Star voting begins soon, and the league's new format divides rosters between American and international players, selected by conference with no positional requirements. All-NBA eligibility requires a 65-game minimum, though early picks ignore this for now as long as players haven't missed 18 games.
All-NBA First Team
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Thunder and Nikola Jokić of the Nuggets top the list. Jokić leads the league in rebounds and assists among qualified players and is on pace for NBA records in BPM and PER. Gilgeous-Alexander nears one point per minute, a feat achieved only by Wilt Chamberlain and Joel Embiid. Luka Dončić of the Lakers averages over 35 points per game while leading in assists among historical high scorers. Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Bucks scores and assists more per minute than ever with elite rim protection. Cade Cunningham of the Pistons rounds out the team, excelling in defense, assists, and rebounds on the No. 1 seed despite a less talented roster.
All-NBA Second Team
Tyrese Maxey (76ers) and Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves) follow, with Maxey handling historic workload and Edwards balancing shot selection. Stephen Curry (Warriors) leads in 3-pointers made per game at age 37. Jaylen Brown (Celtics) thrives without Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, and others, posting efficient mid-range shooting and career-high assists as Boston outperforms the Cavaliers. Victor Wembanyama (Spurs) averages 26 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists, with unmatched blocks and 76% restricted-area shooting.
All-NBA Third Team
Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers) dips despite better stats due to team decline. Jalen Brunson (Knicks) aids improved passing and 3-point attempts. Austin Reaves (Lakers) mirrors Brunson with added strength. Kevin Durant and Alperen Şengün (Rockets) complement each other on the second-best team, with Durant at 25 points near 50-40-90 and Şengün enhancing playmaking.
All-Star Reserves
Eastern Conference includes Jalen Johnson (Hawks, near 50-40-90), Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks, strong defense), Franz Wagner (Magic, sidelined by sprain), Bam Adebayo (Heat, defensive anchor), Scottie Barnes (Raptors, improved shooting), and Jalen Duren (Pistons, key in +13 paint points differential). Western adds Chet Holmgren (Thunder, high rim efficiency), Deni Avdija (Trail Blazers, 26 efficient points as point guard), Jamal Murray (Nuggets), and Devin Booker (Suns) for demographic balance.
