The 2026 NBA All-Star Game reserves are set, and the debate is already heating up: Who got left out in the cold? With Anthony Edwards and Donovan Mitchell securing their spots, the conversation shifts to the tough choices—and the inevitable snubs. But here's where it gets controversial: Did the coaches get it right, or did they overlook some deserving stars?
The fan-voted starters had their moment, but it’s the reserves where the real drama unfolds. While Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards might have felt snubbed as a starter, he’s now in the game, thanks to the coaches’ picks. But let’s be honest—not everyone can make the cut, and this year’s selections have sparked some serious questions.
The Coaches’ Dilemma: Balancing Star Power and Surprise
The reserve selections, voted on by the coaches, are usually a mix of big names and breakout stars. This year was no different, but it’s the omissions that have everyone talking. Below, we break down the picks, the snubs, and the bold decisions that have fans buzzing.
Eastern Conference Reserves:
- Donovan Mitchell (Cavaliers)
- Jalen Johnson (Hawks)
- Karl-Anthony Towns (Knicks)
- Pascal Siakam (Pacers)
- Norman Powell (Heat)
- Scottie Barnes (Raptors)
- Jalen Duren (Pistons)
Western Conference Reserves:
- Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves)
- Jamal Murray (Nuggets)
- Chet Holmgren (Thunder)
- Kevin Durant (Rockets)
- Devin Booker (Suns)
- Deni Avdija (Trail Blazers)
- LeBron James (Lakers)
The Snubs That Have Everyone Talking
In the East, Michael Porter Jr. (Nets), Josh Giddey (Bulls), Bam Adebayo (Heat), Brandon Ingram (Raptors), and Evan Mobley (Cavaliers) were notably left out. Out West, Kawhi Leonard (Clippers), Alperen Sengun (Rockets), Julius Randle (Timberwolves), and Lauri Markkanen (Jazz) missed the cut. But here’s the part most people miss: Was LeBron James’ selection deserved, or is his legacy carrying him?
LeBron’s Legacy vs. Current Performance
LeBron James is a 22-time All-Star, and his inclusion feels almost ceremonial. But with 17 missed games and averages of 21.9 points, 6.6 assists, and 5.8 rebounds, was he truly one of the best this season? It’s a bold question, but one worth asking. And this is the part most people miss: Should All-Star selections prioritize legacy or current performance?
Kawhi Leonard: The Clipper Left Out
Speaking of snubs, how did Kawhi Leonard not make the cut? Playing in 34 games, he’s averaged 27.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists while shooting 39.5% from three and playing elite defense. With the game in the Clippers’ arena, his absence feels like a missed opportunity. Did the coaches overlook his impact, or is there more to the story?
Alperen Sengun: The Unsung Hero
The Rockets’ Alperen Sengun has been a powerhouse, averaging 21 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 6.4 assists. As the hub of the NBA’s fifth-best offense, his exclusion is baffling. Is the All-Star Game missing a chance to showcase the league’s rising stars?
A New Format for a New Era
This year’s All-Star Game introduces a fresh format: USA vs. International players. With the event airing on NBC and Peacock during the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, it’s a perfect storm of global basketball. The 24 players will be divided into three teams—two USA squads and one World team—competing in a round-robin tournament of four 12-minute games. The top two teams will then face off in a championship game.
All-Star Weekend Schedule
- Feb. 13: Rising Stars and NBA All-Star Celebrity Game at the Intuit Dome and Kia Forum.
- Feb. 14: All-Star Saturday Night (Skills Challenge, 3-Point Contest, Dunk Contest) at the Intuit Dome.
- Feb. 15: The 75th NBA All-Star Game at 5 p.m. Eastern, followed by Winter Olympics coverage.
The Bigger Question: What Makes an All-Star?
As we debate the selections, it’s worth asking: What should define an All-Star? Is it current performance, career achievements, or fan appeal? Let us know in the comments—do you agree with the coaches’ picks, or do you think they missed the mark? Is the All-Star Game still about the best players, or has it become something else entirely?
