NBA All-Star Game’s Most Shocking Snubs: See Who Missed Out!

The roster for the 2024–25 NBA All-Star teams has been unveiled, and as with every season, there are notable omissions. Each player selected, from starters to reserves, has justified their inclusion through impressive statistics and significant contributions to their teams.

The reality, however, is that the NBA’s depth of talent is so vast that 24 All-Star spots do not fully represent the number of players who merit recognition based on their season performance. Despite the presence of star athletes like LeBron James and Nikola Jokic, and newcomers like Victor Wembanyama and Cade Cunningham making their All-Star debut, there are still other players who deserved to be celebrated but were overlooked.

Sports Illustrated has analyzed these overlooked talents, providing insights into why they should have also received All-Star honors this year.

Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings

For two consecutive seasons, Sabonis has been overlooked despite his phenomenal performance. This year, his absence from the All-Star roster is particularly glaring as he has improved his game, averaging 20.9 points and a league-high 14.5 rebounds per game. Sabonis has consistently delivered remarkable performances, including grabbing 20 rebounds in six games and achieving a 28-rebound performance against the Boston Celtics. He has also recorded two triple-doubles with at least 20 rebounds. Despite the Kings’ struggles, Sabonis has proven himself as an exceptional player, deserving of recognition.

LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets

Despite impressive statistics, including an average of 28.2 points and 7.3 assists per game, Ball’s All-Star candidacy is questionable due to his shooting efficiency and the Hornets’ poor performance. Shooting just over 40% from the field and missing 13 games due to an ankle injury, his stats might not reflect a typical All-Star. However, leading the fan vote and still not securing a spot highlights a significant discrepancy between fan expectations and the actual selections, making his exclusion noteworthy.

Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks

Irving’s performance this season has been consistent with his past achievements, averaging 24.2 points per game with excellent shooting efficiency, particularly notable with his 41.9% accuracy from three-point range on significant attempts per game. His reliability has been crucial for the Mavericks, especially in the absence of Luka Doncic. While Irving has had more impressive seasons, his offensive contributions and improved defensive efforts make a strong case for his inclusion in the All-Star game this year.

Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

Young has become synonymous with high statistical output, yet his team has not matched his individual success. This season, he’s averaging 22.7 points and a league-leading 11.4 assists per game, making him one of only two players to average double-digit assists. Despite lower usage rates and subpar shooting percentages, Young’s productivity is undeniably at an All-Star level, though his team’s mediocre performance may have hindered his selection.

Norman Powell, Los Angeles Clippers

James Harden was chosen as the All-Star representative for the Clippers, but it’s arguable that Powell has been the standout player for the team this season. Averaging 24.0 points per game, significantly above his career average, and maintaining a high three-point shooting percentage, Powell’s dynamic offensive performance has been key to the Clippers’ success. His exclusion from the All-Star roster is unfortunate, as his contributions this season are worthy of recognition.

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