Predicting the All-NBA Second Team
Next, the All-NBA second-teamers. A few of these players have ignited playoff streaks for their once-helpless squads. The other two have cemented their names as two of the best players to touch the hardwood.
Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings
Sacramento Kings big man Domantas Sabonis is on pace to earn his second consecutive All-NBA team honor. After being traded to the Kings in 2022, he helped lead Sacramento to the playoffs for two straight seasons.
This season, Sabonis averaged career-highs in rebounds (13.7) and assists (8.2). The All-Star center led the league in triples-doubles with 26 and broke the NBA record for consecutive double-doubles—recording a double-double in 61 straight games.
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
One of the greatest to ever do it, LeBron James seemingly adds a new wrinkle to his game every season. While James has never been shy when it comes to launching 3-pointers, the four-time MVP has never shot the three-ball with better accuracy. In his age-39 season, James canned a career-high 41.0 percent of his triples.
Beyond his marksmanship, the 21-year veteran continues to defy logic. He led the Lakers to yet another playoff appearance while averaging 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game.
Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns
Like his counterpart James, Kevin Durant continues to exhibit excellence as his career progresses. In his age-35 season, the Suns' superstar forward drilled 52.3 percent of his field goals and 41.3 percent of his 3-pointers.
After battling injuries for numerous seasons, Durant appeared in 75 contests, his most since the 2018-19 season. Perhaps most astounding, the former Oklahoma City Thunder forward ranked sixth in the NBA in minutes played. The last time he played more than 2750 minutes was 10 years ago.
Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves
Now we've reached Anthony Edwards, the Timberwolves star guard. In just his fourth season, Edwards has ascended to superstardom. What can't he do? Edwards is insanely athletic, remarkably durable, efficient on offense, and impressive on the defensive end.
The two-time All-Star managed career-highs in points, assists, field goal percentage, and 3-point percentage. Despite an increase in usage rate, Edwards decreased his turnover percentage from last season. The Wolves guard is constantly evolving and appears primed to make an All-NBA team for years to come.
Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
Only one spot on the All-NBA first team was up for grabs with the remaining four seemingly set in stone. New York Knicks' guard Jalen Brunson was the most difficult cut. After beginning his career as a role player, Brunson has emerged as a top-notch first option.
In his second season in New York, Brunson averaged a career-high 28.7 points and 6.7 dimes per game. The All-Star guard was immensely important to the Knicks. He ranked in the 98th percentile in efficiency differential, as New York was 14.5 points per 100 possessions better with Brunson on the court.