In a roster shake-up for this month’s All-Star game, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes and Atlanta’s Trae Young have been named as injury replacements for Joel Embiid and Julius Randle. Both players, initially snubbed from the All-Star roster, have now been granted the opportunity to showcase their talents on the league’s biggest stage.
Barnes, the third-year sensation for the Toronto Raptors, has been enjoying a career year. Averaging a career-high in points (20.2), rebounds (8.1), assists (5.8), steals (1.2), and blocks (1.5), Barnes’ development has been integral for the Raptors, especially after taking a step back last year following his Rookie of the Year campaign in ’22. His versatility — especially on the defensive end — and high basketball IQ have quickly made him a fan favorite and a vital component for a Raptors team ushering in a new era.
Similarly, Young has been a victim of All-Star snubs over the last two seasons. This achievement holds immense significance for Young, as many believe he’s been unjustly left off the roster despite his performances. Currently ranked ninth in scoring (27.2) and second in assists (10.9), Young’s playmaking, sharpshooting, and flair have been on full display this season.
For the two players they will be replacing, it’s a difficult blow for many reasons. Not only will fans not be able to see Philadelphia’s Embiid and New York’s Randle complete during All-Star weekend, but both are projected to be out for an extended period beyond this month’s festivities.
Embiid recently underwent a procedure on his injured knee, and his timeline remains uncertain. A likely MVP frontrunner, Embiid will be ineligible for any end-of-season awards due to the amount of games he’s set to miss. Randle’s timeline is a bit more clear, but the Knicks will be without their three-time All-Star for at least three more weeks with a shoulder injury.
The inclusion of Barnes and Young as injury replacements underscores the depth of talent in the NBA and the competitiveness of the All-Star selection process. Their additions to the All-Star roster add excitement and anticipation to an already star-studded event, and fans can’t wait to see what these talented players bring to the court on All-Star weekend. It’s great to see two snubbed stars get some shine, but we hope that no more replacements are moving forward and all of the stars can maintain health as the All-Star break approaches.
