The NBA All-Star Weekend is almost here, but one of the game’s biggest stars won’t be suiting up. Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors’ veteran guard and perennial fan favorite, has been officially ruled out of the 2026 All-Star Game due to a lingering knee injury. Head coach Steve Kerr confirmed that Curry’s recovery is still ongoing, and the sharpshooter will also miss the Warriors’ next two games.
Curry originally earned a starting nod for Team USA Strips, a lineup that was set to feature some of the league’s most iconic names-LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard among them. But with Curry sidelined, the door is now open for a replacement to step into that All-Star spotlight.
Let’s take a closer look at three players who’ve made a compelling case to fill Curry’s spot in this year’s All-Star Game.
Austin Reaves - Los Angeles Lakers
Reaves is in the middle of a breakout campaign that’s turning heads across the league. With the Lakers leaning more on his offensive production, Reaves has stepped up in a big way-averaging 25.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. That’s not just solid production; that’s All-Star-level impact.
What’s been especially impressive is how seamlessly Reaves has adapted to a larger role. Playing alongside Luka Dončić, he’s emerged as a reliable second scoring option, showing poise, versatility, and a knack for big moments.
His scoring touch, combined with his ability to make plays for others, has made him a key part of the Lakers’ core. If the All-Star Game is about rewarding growth and performance, Reaves checks every box.
James Harden - Cleveland Cavaliers
Even at 35, Harden continues to show why he’s one of the most skilled guards of his generation. After a midseason move from the Clippers to the Cavaliers, he hasn’t missed a beat. He’s averaging 25.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 8.1 assists while shooting 42.1% from the field and 35.1% from deep.
Harden’s playmaking remains elite. He’s still capable of running an offense with precision, keeping defenders guessing with his mix of step-backs, drives, and dimes.
The only wrinkle? If the All-Star replacement must come from the Western Conference, Harden-now with an Eastern Conference team-would be ineligible.
Still, from a pure performance standpoint, he’s absolutely in the conversation.
Utah Jazz Forward
Quietly but consistently, the Jazz’s star forward has been putting together a season worthy of All-Star recognition. He’s averaging 26.9 points per game on 47.8% shooting from the floor and nearly 90% from the free-throw line. That kind of efficiency, especially for a player who scores at all three levels, is hard to ignore.
What makes him stand out isn’t just the scoring, though-it’s the complete offensive package. He stretches the floor with his three-point shot, rebounds well for his position, and can create his own shot when needed. In a Western Conference that’s stacked with talent, he’s held his own and then some, anchoring Utah’s offense night in and night out.
With Curry officially out, the league now has a decision to make. There’s no replacing a player like Steph-his shooting gravity, leadership, and All-Star pedigree are one of a kind.
But the NBA is full of rising stars and seasoned vets ready to step up. Whether it’s a breakout performer like Reaves, a proven star like Harden, or a do-it-all forward from Utah, the All-Star Game won’t be short on talent.