Portland Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija earned his first NBA All-Star selection as a Western Conference reserve, becoming the first Israeli player to achieve the honor. The announcement highlighted debates over snubs like Kawhi Leonard, while LeBron James secured his 22nd consecutive nod. Avdija's breakout season has propelled Portland toward a play-in spot.
The NBA revealed its All-Star reserves on Sunday, capping a selection process that stirred controversy in the revamped format pitting USA against the World in a 24-player round-robin tournament. Deni Avdija, 24, joined West reserves including Anthony Edwards, Jamal Murray, Chet Holmgren, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and LeBron James. East reserves featured Donovan Mitchell, Pascal Siakam, Norman Powell, Scottie Barnes, Jalen Duren, Jalen Johnson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Avdija's inclusion marks Portland's first All-Star since Damian Lillard and underscores his explosive rise. Averaging 25.5 points, 7.2 rebounds and 6.7 assists per game, he leads the league in drives and has transformed the Blazers from cellar dwellers to play-in contenders without him, per Cleaning the Glass metrics. Traded from the Washington Wizards in 2024 for two first-round picks after signing a four-year, $55 million extension, Avdija credits newfound confidence: "I believe in myself more than ever before, and because of that, I'm able to play more free."
Speaking after Portland's 130-111 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers—where he sat out due to a lower back strain—Avdija reflected on the moment. "I worked hard. I play hard," he said. "I'm really happy that I'm able to be an All-Star." He emphasized team support: "I couldn't do it without my teammates." The news broke during pregame film, with congratulations pouring in from fans, family and Israel. All-Star Weekend is set for February 13-15.
Snubs dominated discussions, particularly in the talent-laden West. Clippers star Kawhi Leonard, averaging a career-high 27.7 points on track for 50/40/90 shooting efficiency, plus league-leading 94% free throws and 2.1 steals, was overlooked. Coach Tyronn Lue called Leonard "the best player in the NBA" over the last six weeks. Rockets center Alperen Sengun (20 points, nine rebounds, six assists) and Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen (27 points, seven rebounds) also drew ire, as did Clippers guard James Harden for driving their top-five offense. In the East, Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. outperformed reserve Norman Powell in scoring, rebounding and assists on better efficiency.
Critics argued the conference structure disadvantages West talent, with calls to eliminate it. Joel Embiid's limited 28 games kept him out despite dominance. Avdija's story, from draft doubts to All-Star, highlights resilience amid the league's competitive selections.