Nickeil Alexander-Walker becoming an NBA All-Star would have sounded fairly outrageous a year ago.
Now? It merely sounds bold.
Jackson Caudell of NBA On SI recently predicted that Alexander-Walker will join Jalen Johnson as one of two Atlanta representatives in the 2027 All-Star Game.
Alexander-Walker is coming off a breakout season in which he averaged nearly 21 points after scoring just nine per game during his final year with the Timberwolves. He also provided Atlanta with dependable outside shooting and strong perimeter defense.
The next step would be becoming more of a playmaker. If Alexander-Walker adds that element without sacrificing his efficiency, the numbers could begin to resemble those of an All-Star candidate.
Winning would help even more. Caudell also predicted the Hawks will secure a top-four seed and finish with a top-five defense. That would place considerably more attention on Alexander-Walker, Johnson and a deep perimeter group that includes Dyson Daniels and newcomer Lu Dort.
The problem is that the Eastern Conference isn’t short on qualified guards. Alexander-Walker would need the statistics, team success and perhaps an injury or two elsewhere to create an opening.
Still, this is no longer a completely ridiculous conversation. Alexander-Walker already made one enormous jump. Another one could send him to All-Star weekend, though he may want to wait before booking the hotel.
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