Donovan Mitchell and 4 other stars fighting for their first All-NBA Team

First All-NBA Team: Kristaps Porzingis

This is probably the most surprising name on the list, but there’s a method to the madness. First, Kristaps Porzingis is having his best season in years, if not ever. He is pouring in 20.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, shooting a career-best 48.9 percent from the field and hitting 38.7 of his 3-pointers. On a Washington Wizards team struggling to figure out who on the roster it can trust, Porzingis has been the clear shining star.

The versatile center has been the centerpiece for the Wizards on offense and defense. His EPM ranks 10th in the league and he is eighth in RAPTOR. With only two centers distinguishing themselves in the early going there is a third-team center spot open for the taking. The Minnesota Timberwolves are scuffling, Anthony Davis is fragile and Bam Adebayo / Jarrett Allen haven’t grabbed the bull by the horns yet. If Porzingis is ever going to make it, this is the year.

Verdict: Work to Do

First All-NBA Team: Zion Williamson

Zion Williamson is the biggest star on this list, a charismatic and exciting player who attacks a basketball court in unique ways for a player with his size and weight. He can run the point, sky high on the roll for lobs, or destroy players of all sizes in the post. He is pouring in 23.5 points per game while shooting 56.6 percent from the field and integrating on a stacked New Orleans Pelicans team.

If the Pelicans end up among the best teams in the Western Conference, someone on the roster will be in strong consideration to earn their first All-NBA berth. The most likely candidate is Williamson, but Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum are important to their success as well. If Williamson stays healthy, he could become the latest perennial fixture on the All-NBA teams.

Verdict: On Track