PHOENIX –New Dallas Mavericks center Anthony Davis’ left abductor strain injury opened up a slot for an All-Star replacement from the Western Conference. Phoenix Suns Devin Booker was near the top of biggest snubs this year when the original All-Star rosters were revealed, with the expectation he could be the next name if a spot opened up. That was not the case. ESPN NBA Insider Sham Charania reported that the NBA had selected Davis’ teammate Kyrie Irving as the All-Star replacement.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving has replaced Anthony Davis in the 2025 NBA All-Star Game. This is Irving’s ninth All-Star appearance.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 10, 2025
This is Irving’s ninth All-Star Game, his first since the 2022-2023 season with the Brooklyn Nets. The blockbuster Luka Doncic might’ve overshadowed the impressive season the 32-year-old has had, averaging 24.1 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.6 rebounds on 47.5% from the field.
Feb 8, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (11) during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Despite the impressive numbers, when compared to Booker, the selection becomes a little questionable. Booker averages 26.4 points, 6.6 assists, and 4.1 rebounds on 45.3% shooting, while the Mavericks only stand 1.5 games ahead of the Suns in the Standings. The announcement that the four-time All-Star wasn’t invited to San Francisco took his game to a new level.
Feb 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) dribbles against the Denver Nuggets during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
For the past 18 games, Booker has averaged 30.1 points and 6.5 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.0 steals while having 62.8% true shooting. The 28-year-old has been extraordinary in recent weeks, as he seems motivated since the first snubbed. Now facing that same disrespect, how will Booker respond? The Suns have a game against the 2nd seed Memphis Grizzlies tomorrow, which is a perfect place for Booker to star.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
