Trae Young will be an All-Star after all. The Atlanta Hawks guard, initially left out of the 2025 NBA All-Star roste, will replace the injured Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Milwaukee Bucks star is sidelined with a calf strain and will miss the event in San Francisco.
Trae Young Beats Out LaMelo, Others To Replace Giannis At All-Star Weekend
This marks Young’s fourth All-Star selection in seven seasons. He is averaging 23.5 points, 11.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds while leading the league in assists. Despite his individual brilliance, the Hawks sit at 25-28, struggling to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference.
With the All-Star Game featuring a new format—three teams drafted by TNT analysts and a fourth team composed of Rising Stars winners—Young will join Team Chuck, led by Charles Barkley. His presence will bring balance to a roster heavy on big men.
The Case for LaMelo Ball
Many believed LaMelo Ball deserved the All-Star spot. The Charlotte Hornets guard boasts impressive numbers: 28 points, 7.4 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game. Despite these eye-catching stats, several factors worked against him.
The Hornets are 13-36, one of the worst teams in the league. Coaches often reward winning, and Ball’s team struggles mightily. His efficiency is another concern, as his high usage rate leads to inconsistent shooting. Additionally, he has played only 32 games due to injuries, making him a tough selection over healthier candidates.
Fans, however, wanted him in. Ball was the No. 1 voted Eastern Conference guard. His flashy playstyle and marketability make him a natural fit for an exhibition game. His Puma sneaker line dominates gyms nationwide, proving his popularity among younger fans.
Franz Wagner’s Strong But Flawed Case
Franz Wagner has been Orlando’s best player this season. He is averaging 25 points, 5.6 assists, and 5.1 rebounds while stepping up during Paolo Banchero’s absence. His impact has been undeniable, helping the Magic maintain playoff contention.
However, Wagner has played only 34 games, a major red flag for All-Star consideration. His shooting numbers from deep remain inconsistent, and he lacks the name recognition of other stars. While he outperforms Boston’s Jaylen Brown and Indiana’s Pascal Siakam in key metrics, availability remains his biggest weakness.
Orlando’s record—26-28—is mediocre, which hurts his case. Despite this, Wagner has been the team’s stabilizing force. The Magic are 13-7 when Wagner plays without Banchero, a pace that would translate to 54 wins over a full season.
Why Trae Young Made the All-Star Game
Trae Young’s All-Star exclusion has become a recurring theme. The NBA’s coaches have never selected him, despite his offensive brilliance. Fans voted him in twice, and this marks his second straight injury replacement selection.
His ability to create for teammates sets him apart. He leads the NBA in assists while maintaining a strong scoring average. Critics cite his defense and the Hawks’ losing record, but his offensive production outweighs those concerns.
Atlanta struggles without him. With Young on the floor, the Hawks play at a competitive level. Without him, they are significantly worse. His improved off-ball play and defensive effort further strengthen his case.
Other Notable Snubs
Several other players had a case for Antetokounmpo’s replacement:
Jarrett Allen (Cleveland Cavaliers): A defensive anchor on the first seed in the East.
Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers): A bright spot in an underwhelming year for the Sixers.
Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers): One of the league’s best young playmakers.
Ultimately, Adam Silver chose Young. His combination of elite passing, scoring, and entertainment value made him the best fit. While Ball and Wagner had compelling cases, Young’s consistent excellence sealed the deal.
Now, Trae Young gets to shine on the All-Star stage once again, at the expense of Giannis.
