The 2014 NBA draft class is absolutely loaded with high-potential players, drastically increasing the chances of seeing more than a few future All-Stars entering the league this offseason. Down the road, we could very well be looking at a group of players like the one that entered the league in 1984 and produced seven All-Stars in the first round alone.
Andrew Wiggins, Jabari Parker and Joel Embiid lead the charge, but the talent doesn't just drop off after the top three prospects. Plenty of prospects are imbued with potential.
But who will realize it first? Which young standout will earn 2014's first All-Star bid? Jonathan Wasserman, NBA Draft Lead Writer
It's just too tough to pick against Jabari Parker as the first All-Star of the 2014 class. For starters, he's as prepared for the NBA as anyone.
Physically, he's got the 241-pound athletic frame built for contact. Fundamentally, he's arguably the most refined prospect in the field when you take into account his post game, jumper and ability to create his own shot, whether it's at the rim or 23 feet away from it. Mentally, Parker has that blend of high character, basketball IQ and competitiveness that coaches drool over. And regardless of where he ends up—Cleveland, Milwaukee, Philadelphia—he's going to get an immediate opportunity to make plays as a starter.
Parker's best shot at reaching All-Star status early on would be with the Cavaliers. Not only does he fit perfectly into the lineup as a 3 or 4, but there'd be more talent in Cleveland to play off than anywhere else. Plus, the Cavaliers are closer to competing for a playoff spot than the Bucks or 76ers, and there's no doubt playing for a winning team increases a player's All-Star chances.
I think Parker puts up numbers right away, regardless of where he lands. Assuming the minutes are there, I'm pegging him as a 17-point, eight-rebound-per-game rookie. I'd imagine he'll get toasted on defense from time to time, but there's no reason why his offensive skills can't translate right away. Parker is my pick for 2015 Rookie of the Year and the first All-Star from the 2014 draft class. Daniel O'Brien, NBA Draft Featured Columnist
Can't really argue with the Parker choice. He's best-equipped to do damage as soon as he enters the league, as he's already polished and confident enough to score in a variety of ways.
Even though his lottery peers are exciting and may flourish in the future, he's clearly capable of putting up better stats than them early in his career. And let's face it, gaudy offensive numbers give you a great chance to land on an All-Star team.
Parker can attack opponents in almost any matchup. He will burn 4s on the perimeter and mid-range, and he can create and shoot over wings from any spot on the floor.
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