It was just last week that the NBA announced the starters for its All-Star Game in Chicago next month.
We now know who the reserves will be. Some of the big names on this list likely did not deserve a nod, while other lesser-known players got their first All-Star invite.
Russell Westbrook will be making his ninth career All-Star appearance and his first with the Houston Rockets. He’s averaging 26.3 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.4 assists on the season.
The man he was traded for, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Chris Paul, will be making his 10th appearance in the mid-season classic. He’s been tremendous in his first season with a surprising OKC team, averaging 17.1 points and 6.5 assists per.
Back east, Ben Simmons earns his second All-Star appearance in three seasons. He’s joined perennial All-Stars such as Jimmy Butler and Kyle Lowry.
First-time All-Stars include Donovan Mitchell, Rudy Gobert, Brandon Ingram, Jayson Tatum, Bam Adebayo, Domas Sabonis and Khris Middleton.
The All-Star Game will be held Feb. 16 in Chicago.