The NBA announced its reserves for the 2021 All-Star Game set to take place in Atlanta next month. Phoenix Suns star Devin Booker was not included.
It’s pretty crazy given that Booker leads a 20-10 team and has been on an absolute tear recently. Heck, the two-guard is averaging 27.1 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists on 53% shooting over the past 13 games.
Despite this, Booker was snubbed out of his second career NBA All-Star Game appearance. One of the game’s best ever was not having it.
For the most part, his Phoenix Suns have struggled since Booker joined the team as a first-round pick back in 2015. That would explain the lack of respect. There’s no excuse this season.
As noted above, Phoenix sits at 20-10 on the campaign. The team has won nine of 10. Meanwhile, Booker continues to excel in his first season as future Hall of Famer Chris Paul’s teammate. He’s averaging 24.7 points, 3.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists on 50% shooting, including a 38% mark from distance. Those are All-Star numbers right now.
NBA All-Star Game reserves announced
- Western Conference: Chris Paul, Paul George, Damian Lillard, Donovan Mitchell, Rudy Gobert, Zion Williamson, Anthony Davis
- Eastern Conference: James Harden, Julius Randle, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Zach LaVine, Ben Simmons, Nikola Vucevic
As you can see, Paul, Lillard and Mitchell are three guards who made the All-Star Team over Booker in the Western Conference. In particular, it’s rather stunning that Paul earned a trip over his teammate. Sure, we’re looking at a future first ballot Hall of Famer. With that said, he has not had anywhere near the season as his new teammate.
The good news? Devin Booker will likely get the nod to replace the injured Anthony Davis. Even then, it is definitely a sign that he’s disrespected around the league. King James apparently agrees.
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