Early predictions for 2021-22 All-NBA First Team

Small forward: Kevin Durant (Brooklyn Nets)

Kevin Durant still has something to prove in fan eyes

Predicted stat line: 33 points, 8.5 boards, 6.2 assists

Yes, the next guy on this All-NBA prediction list, Kevin Durant, could win every postseason award available to him as well. The Easy Money Sniper has a lot to prove to many, and staying healthy is on his mind as well in Kyrie Irving's absence. This is going to be good! How many points per game will James Harden and Kevin Durant combine for? Every team playing the Brooklyn Nets will hope that Kevin Durant has an off night. The career 27 points a game scorer has this fire going under the surface. He doesn't speak to points until they're asked. The NBA world is his.

Power forward: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)

Does a hungrier player in the NBA exist?

Predicted stat line: 30.1 points, 13.1 boards, 4.6 dimes

Some say Kevin Durant is the best player in the league currently, yet I say it's Giannis Antetokounmpo. He simply took the NBA title last season. Giannis took the NBA title so viciously that his likeness should adorn the Larry O'Brien trophy. Putting up playoff averages with a scowl of 35 points per, 13 boards and five assists, it's apparent that Giannis Antetokounmpo is not done. Giannis will have to fight every team to his best as the target on his NBA championship back balloons bigger. It would be absurd not to think the NBA will be coming for the Milwaukee Bucks as fans proclaim "Bucks in 6!" for the duration of time.

Center: Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)

Mizzo you really picked me at center?

Predicted stat line: 31.7 points, 11.6 boards, 3.8 dimes

Nikola Jokic did Wilt Chamberlain things last season, but if Joel Embiid had played more games, he would have won MVP. It's the difference he makes on the defensive end that separates the two best big men in the NBA, and that would be the difference again if Joel Embiid can stay healthy this season. As the Philadelphia 76ers look beyond this current drama with Ben Simmons and give Joel Embiid the total reigns of the team, his numbers of last season will increase if he can take the pressure off his weary knees. Will Joel Embiid have to post up more if Ben Simmons isn't on the floor to find his mates at the arc when dribbling to the center of the court? How will the pick and roll look with Tobias Harris and Tyrese Maxey? Check out the box score somewhere down the line, and there's your answer.