Stephen Curry is officially out for the NBA All-Star Game, and with that, the league loses one of its most electrifying showmen for the weekend. Curry’s lingering knee injury means he won’t be suiting up for Team USA Stripes, and while his absence is a blow to the spectacle, it also opened the door for someone new to step in. That someone, as chosen by Commissioner Adam Silver, is Brandon Ingram.
Ingram, now a two-time All-Star, is having a strong season for a Toronto Raptors team that’s been one of the more pleasant surprises in the league. He’s averaging 22 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game-steady production from a player who’s long been known for his smooth scoring and versatility on the wing.
There’s no denying he’s earned the nod. But the conversation doesn’t end there.
Because standing just outside the All-Star circle this year is Cooper Flagg, the 19-year-old rookie who’s already making waves across the league. Flagg is putting up 20.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game while playing a pivotal role for the Dallas Mavericks.
He’s not just holding his own-he’s thriving. And he’s doing it on both ends of the floor.
Flagg’s defense, in particular, has turned heads. He’s guarding multiple positions, showing instincts beyond his years, and bringing a level of intensity that’s rare for a player his age. While Ingram brings more offensive polish and is part of a Raptors squad outperforming expectations, Flagg offers something different-a glimpse into the league’s future.
The last rookie to make the All-Star Game was Blake Griffin in 2011. That 15-year drought continues, and it’s hard not to feel like this was a missed opportunity to break it.
This year’s All-Star Game had the potential to be more than just a midseason showcase-it could’ve been a generational moment. With Curry originally slated to play alongside Kevin Durant and LeBron James, the stage was set for a symbolic passing of the torch. Add in Victor Wembanyama representing Team World, and the league had a golden chance to spotlight its next era.
Imagine the visual: Curry, Durant, and LeBron sharing the floor one last time, with Flagg and Wembanyama waiting in the wings. It could’ve been a bridge between eras, a celebration of what’s been and what’s coming. Instead, that narrative gets put on hold.
That’s not a knock on Ingram. He’s a deserving All-Star, and his selection reflects the league’s recognition of his growth and impact. But Flagg’s omission is a reminder that All-Star Weekend isn’t just about rewarding great seasons-it’s also about storytelling, about moments that capture the imagination of fans and hint at what’s next.
Flagg will still take part in the Rising Stars Game, and that’s a stage where he’ll no doubt shine. But for now, the All-Star Game will move forward without one of the league’s brightest young stars on its biggest regular-season platform. The league had a chance to showcase the future-and while it chose consistency, it may have missed a moment.