Austin Reaves, Jalen Duren, Chet Holmgren: 2026 All-Star Leaps

Merlin sees a clear crop of early All-Star contenders as the league shifts to two USA teams and a World team. Austin Reaves has exploded to 28.1 points and 7.6 assists with 51‑ and 41‑point nights; Jalen Duren rose from 11.8 to 20.6 PPG while dominating the glass; Chet Holmgren is at 19.3 PPG with thunderous rim efficiency; Jalen Johnson (22.8 PPG, 6.6 APG) and Jamal Murray (22.5 PPG) complete the list of players who’ve “made the leap.” Merlin notes that selection will hinge on teammates, minutes and health — Reaves may be squeezed by Luka (and LeBron if he plays enough), while Duren, Holmgren and Johnson have clearer paths if their teams keep winning. Murray’s ability to stay fresh could vault him into the conversation. These storylines are only beginning; the magic can shift quickly.