NBA commissioner Adam Silver announced that Atlanta Hawks star guard Trae Young will replace the injured Giannis Antetokounmpo in the upcoming All-Star Game. Antetokounmpo, who is sidelined week to week with a calf injury, will be unable to participate.
Young has been sensational this season, working to keep the Hawks competitive as they sit in ninth place, three games below .500. He is currently the favorite for Clutch Player of the Year.
Young is averaging 23 points and 11 assists, with 31 double-doubles on the season. He also leads the league with three games of 20+ assists. This will mark Young’s fourth All-Star appearance, and he had previously been vocal about his disappointment in not being selected originally.
This year’s revamped All-Star Game will feature three teams of eight superstars instead of the traditional two-team format. Size and versatility will be key, and Young’s ability to distribute and shoot from deep will provide his team with an advantage.
The league’s assist leader will play for NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley’s team, alongside stars like Nikola Jokić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Victor Wembanyama.
