Brooklyn Nets who could be in next year’s All-Star games

NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 12: D'Angelo Russell
NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 12: D'Angelo Russell

In last night’s NBA All-Star game, Team Lebron defeated Team Stephen 148-145. The Nets don’t have playoff aspirations at this point in the season, but will look to finish out strong. Here are three Brooklyn Nets who could be in next year’s All-Star games.

1. Spencer Dinwiddie

The Brooklyn Nets did have a participant in this year’s All-Star weekend events. Spencer Dinwiddie took home the winning trophy during the Taco Bell Skills Challenge. His win had him trending on social media, and he recently made an appearance on the Rachel Ray show.

Dinwiddie’s rise this season has been well documented, with averages of 13.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game. Yesterday, we looked at a few areas he could work on over the rest of this season to really take his game to the next level. These being shooting efficiency, and turnovers.

If Dinwiddie can improve in these areas, with another full off season of training, he could make an even bigger jump next year. Even with Jeremy Lin coming back, Kenny Atkinson’s staff would be wise to anoint Dinwiddie the starter. With his increased popularity and play, Dinwiddie could represent the Nets in the All-Star game.

2. D’Angelo Russell

D’Angelo Russell has the highest ceiling of any of the Nets’ guards. Before his knee injury this year he was averaging 20.9 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.7 rebounds. Those numbers over a full season would certainly garner All-Star consideration.

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Since his return however, Russell’s production is down significantly, as is his playing time. Russell will continue to power through the rest of this season, and should be at 100% to start next year. He’s still just 21 years old, and will be in the final year of his rookie deal in 2019. The key remains his ability to stay on the court.

3. Jarrett Allen

Allen is in the opposite situation, having been inserted into the starting rotation recently. He’s been thriving in the new role, and doesn’t appear to be looking back. As a starter he’s averaging 13 points, and seven rebounds per game, with great efficiency from the free throw stripe for a big.

The focus for the rest of the year will be on his development. With a full off season to build strength and expand him offensive game, we could see Allen improve even more on his numbers during the recent stretch. If he does, he could represent the Nets in next season’s Rising Stars Challenge. His ferocious dunks would be a sight to see on the national stage.

Next: What to watch for after Dinwiddie's Challenge Win