NBA Unveils 2026 All-Star Reserve Players

The NBA has officially revealed its All-Star reserve players for 2026. This announcement coincides with the matchup between the Knicks and the Lakers, broadcast on NBC. The reserves complement the ten All-Star starters announced previously.

2026 All-Star Reserves Breakdown

Eastern Conference Reserves

• First-Time All-Stars: Johnson, Powell, Duren
• Key Performers:
  • Powell: Averaging a career-high 23.0 points per game in his first season with Miami.
  • Johnson: Versatile point forward with averages of 23.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 8.0 assists. His three-point shooting stands at 36.0%.
  • Duren: Contributing 18.0 points and 10.7 rebounds per game, he’s the second scorer for the top-ranked Pistons in the East.
• Notable Teammates:
  • Towns: Leading the NBA in rebounds (11.8) while scoring 20.0 points per game, despite struggling with shooting accuracy.
  • Brunson: Selected as a starter for the second consecutive year.
  • Cunningham: Duren’s teammate on the Pistons.

Western Conference Reserves

• First-Time All-Stars: Murray, Holmgren, Avdija
• Key Performers:
  • Murray: Averages 25.8 points and 7.4 assists, playing a pivotal role for the Nuggets as they maintain the No. 2 seed.
  • Avdija: Experiencing a breakout season, he’s at 25.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game.
  • Holmgren: Contributing 17.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks while anchoring the Thunder’s defense.
• Veterans:
  • Booker: Leading the Suns to a 30-19 record.
  • James: Selected for his 22nd consecutive All-Star team with averages of 21.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.6 assists.

Notable Omissions and Future Decisions

Several star players did not make the roster, including Michael Porter Jr., Kawhi Leonard, and Joel Embiid. These players may serve as injury replacements.

International Representation

The NBA’s new inclusion of a USA versus World format requires at least eight international players. Prominent names such as Luka Doncic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are expected to be part of the World roster. The league faces a decision regarding the classification of Towns and Powell due to their international play affiliations.

The NBA will announce detailed roster breakdowns shortly, including any potential replacements necessary for the Eastern Conference.