Though fans were already aware of the ten players set to start the All-Star game, the NBA recently disclosed the remaining 14 All-Stars. The exclusion of some players from this list has left many fans surprised. Superstars such as James Harden, Kyrie Irving, and Trae Young were all left out of the 14-man list.

Their exclusion from the All-Star game has led to a passionate discourse around increasing player spots for the All-Star game due to increased competition. Former NBA star and sharpshooter JJ Redick also holds the same opinion. After several worthy stars missed out on All-Star selections, JJ Redick voiced his opinion publicly through his X (formerly Twitter) handle. He wrote, “Add 15 roster spots per conference. No reserves. It’s time NBA.”

This sentiment isn’t limited to Redick; several fans also hold the same opinion, and the argument holds weight. In 1968, the NBA expanded All-Star selections to 12 players per conference, a decision made when there were just 12 teams in the league. Over time, the league has expanded to 30 teams, and the number of players has also drastically increased as a result. In 1961, a quarter of all players in the league were chosen for the All-Star game. However, in the modern NBA, this percentage has decreased significantly to just 4%.

Although the All-Star game may not greatly influence the season’s championship outcome, it holds significant importance in shaping a player’s legacy. As JJ Redick accurately pointed out, “An All-Star appearance is meaningful to the player. It’s a point of validation. It creates value in their playing career and value for their brand.” However, as of now, the NBA has no plans in place to increase the roster spots in the All-Star game. So, let’s look at some notable absentees from the All-Star game.

Notable absentees in the All-Star game

Every year, several players and fanbases feel wronged by the final outcome of the All-Star voting, and 2024 was no different. In the Eastern Conference, while the voters got most of the selections right, a case could be made for the inclusion of Boston duo Kristaps Porziņģis and Derrick White. Another notable name missing from the All-Star roster is Pascal Siakam, who continues to deliver after his mid-season trade to the Pacers.

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However, it’s a different story in the Western Conference, as several players can feel hard done by their exclusion. Rookies Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama have excelled so far this season, and they had high chances of becoming the first rookie since Blake Griffin to be named into the All-Star team. Sacramento Kings’ duo De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis were also left out from the All-Star roster, despite having a stellar 2023-24 season. What are your thoughts on the All-Star rosters? Let us know in the comments below!

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