Being named an NBA All-Star is a huge honor, but earning a starting spot is even tougher. The 2025 NBA All-Star Game starters were revealed on Thursday night, just before a highly anticipated doubleheader featuring the Miami Heat vs. Milwaukee Bucks and the Boston Celtics vs. Los Angeles Lakers.
While the starting lineups are packed with talent, some players had strong cases to be among the first five on the floor. However, with only five spots per conference, the competition is fierce. The reserves will be announced on January 30, but for now, let’s take a look at the biggest snubs who missed out on a starting role.
1. Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)
Cade Cunningham has been a driving force behind the Detroit Pistons’ rise in the Eastern Conference standings. As of Thursday, the Pistons held the No. 6 spot, which guarantees them a playoff berth.
Why He Deserved to Start:
- Averaging career highs:
- Points: 24.6 per game
- Assists: 9.4 per game
- Rebounds: 5.6 per game
- Led Detroit to 23 wins by midseason, already surpassing last season’s total by nine games.
- His playmaking and leadership have been crucial in the Pistons’ surprising success.
Despite his impressive stats and impact, he was overlooked for a starting spot in the All-Star Game.
2. Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers)
Anthony Davis remains a dominant force for the Lakers. While LeBron James continues to shine as both a scorer and facilitator, Davis provides stability on both ends of the floor.
Why He Deserved to Start:
- A key anchor for the Lakers’ offense and defense.
- His ability to space the floor has improved, as he has embraced the three-point shot more in recent games.
- Ranks 4th in Player Impact Estimate (PIE) at 17.9, which measures overall contributions.
Even though Davis has been a consistent force, he missed out on a starting spot despite his high impact on the game.
3. Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Anthony Edwards has become one of the NBA’s most electrifying players. Though his efficiency has dipped slightly, his impact on the court remains massive.
Why He Deserved to Start:
- Leading the league in three-pointers made (184).
- Top 3-point shooting percentage (42.6%) among the top 25 players in attempts.
- One of the most dynamic scorers in the league, known for explosive dunks and fearless play.
Despite his incredible shooting and scoring ability, he was not selected as a starter.
4. Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
Victor Wembanyama has made a massive leap in his second season, showing why he is considered one of the most talented young stars in the league.
Why He Deserved to Start:
- The best defender in the NBA, leading the league in blocks (4.0 per game).
- Increased offensive role, averaging:
- Points: 24.4 per game
- Rebounds: 10.8 per game
- Assists: 3.7 per game
- Steals: 1.1 per game
- Shooting efficiently:
- 47.3% from the field
- 35.4% from three-point range
- 84.5% from the free-throw line
His defensive dominance and offensive growth have helped the Spurs stay competitive, making him a worthy candidate for a starting spot.
The NBA All-Star Game always sparks debates about who should have made the starting lineup. While the chosen starters are undoubtedly talented, these four players—Cade Cunningham, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, and Victor Wembanyama—had strong cases to be in the starting five.
Each of them has been a key contributor to their teams, posting impressive stats and making a huge impact on both ends of the court. While they might not have been named starters, they will likely still make the All-Star team as reserves. The final roster, including reserves, will be announced on January 30 on TNT.
