The All-Star Game is one of the most anticipated moments of the NBA, and each year it mesmerizes fans with various events that showcase various attributes of superstars in the league.
However, the All-Star Game ends up being a moment of sadness for those who are not selected, especially when the player truly deserves a spot for his consistent and remarkable performances. But when deserving a player misses two consecutive All-Star selection chances, the agony intensifies.
Atlanta Hawks’ star point guard omitted from All-Star Game
Many overlooked Atlanta Hawks’ star Trae Young’s exclusion from last year’s All-Star game. However, this year’s exclusion has not gone unnoticed with many fans and analysts bringing to light his exceptional talent which has failed to secure him a spot on the All-Star team.
While his exclusion from the starter’s list was understandable, Trae Young’s exclusion from the Eastern Conference All-Star team has raised concerns and questions. Earlier today, the NBA announced the list of the reserves for each conference which was voted by the various coaches in the league and a recurring theme was observed of Young not making the cut.
The players that were picked ahead of Trae Young were Jaylen Brown, Jalen Brunson, Bam Adebayo, Paolo Banchero, Tyrese Maxey, Julius Randle and Donovan Mitchell. This year, Young has been one of the best young players in the league, leading the Hawks to the best of his abilities. While the Atlanta Hawks don’t possess the record to argue Young’s exclusion, there have been instances of All-Star selections, despite a player’s team performing poorly in the league.
There is still a potential opportunity for Young to make the team but it will come only if Embiid, Randle or any of the other selected stars fail to remain healthy for the highly-awaited fixture. While there will be an asterisk around his selection through that manner, it still presents Young the opportunity to play on the big stage.
Regardless, Trae Young’s exclusion from the Eastern Conference All-Star team comes as a massive snub and setback for the superstar.
Young’s Remarkable averages fail to secure All-Star spot
The reason why Trae Young’s exclusion comes as a surprise to many is because of his amazing averages for the Atlanta Hawks.
This year, the superstar has averaged 27 points per game, along with 10 assists, making him one of the finest talents in the league. Trae has effortlessly established himself as one of the best point guards in the league, threading the needle almost perfectly each and every time.
Trae Young finds himself in a peculiar category, a list that features himself twice. In the league’s history, there are only three instances where a player averaged at least 25 points and 10 assists per game and missed the All-Star Game. Young accounts for two of the instances, sampling back-to-back seasons, and is joined by Michael Adams from the 1990–1991 NBA season.
Despite his spectacular averages, Trae Young has been overlooked and many argue that the reason for his exclusions is the team he represents. Whether the analysis is true or not is up for discussion but there is no doubt that Young was snubbed from the All-Star Game this year.
The game, which is going to be held on the 18th of this month, sees the return of the classic Western Conference vs Eastern Conference format.
What do you think of Trae Young’s exclusion from the ASG? Was Young snubbed? Does the superstar deserve better? We are eager to know your thoughts and opinions regarding the matter, so feel free to comment below.
