Julius Randle's All-Star Snub Is the Latest Chapter in a Career of Underrated Impact
When the NBA announced its 2026 All-Star reserves, Timberwolves fans were hoping for more than just the expected nod for Anthony Edwards. Edwards, who many felt deserved a starting spot, was a lock.
But there was real anticipation around whether Julius Randle-or even Rudy Gobert-would join him in Indianapolis. That hope was dashed when the Western Conference reserves were revealed: Edwards, Jamal Murray, Chet Holmgren, Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Deni Avdija, and LeBron James.
Let’s be clear: that’s a strong group. But the omission of Julius Randle stands out-and not in a good way.
His absence is more than just a minor oversight. It’s a continuation of a pattern where Randle’s value gets overlooked, even as he continues to deliver high-level production and impact on a nightly basis.
Randle’s Numbers Stack Up-And Then Some
This isn’t about legacy or name recognition. It’s about performance this season.
Randle has played in all 50 of Minnesota’s games, averaging 22.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. That’s not just solid-it’s All-Star caliber.
And when you dig deeper, the numbers only get more compelling.
According to Cleaning the Glass, the Timberwolves’ offense is 11.4 points per 100 possessions better with Randle on the court. That puts him in the 99th percentile leaguewide.
He’s not just producing-he’s elevating the entire offense. That’s the kind of impact you want from an All-Star.
Compare that to LeBron James, who made the team despite playing just 30 games and posting slightly lower averages in scoring and rebounding. The Lakers’ offense, in fact, has been 2.6 points worse per 100 possessions with LeBron on the floor.
Yes, LeBron is a legend, and his resume speaks for itself. But All-Star selections are supposed to reflect this season, not a career achievement award.
The Case Against Chet, Kawhi, and Sengun
Even beyond LeBron, there are a few other names that raise questions when stacked next to Randle. Chet Holmgren is having a standout rookie campaign for a Thunder team sitting atop the West, and he’s been a defensive force.
But Oklahoma City has the depth to survive off nights from Chet. Minnesota?
Not so much. Randle’s offensive load and shot creation are vital to the Wolves’ success.
Kawhi Leonard and Alperen Sengun were also left off the roster, and while both have strong cases, availability and team context matter. Kawhi has played in just 34 games, and Sengun, while excellent, operates within a Houston offense that has more weapons to share the load. Randle’s contributions, by contrast, are central to Minnesota’s identity and success.
A Pattern of Being Overlooked
This isn’t the first time Julius Randle has been left out of the spotlight, and unfortunately, it probably won’t be the last. When the Timberwolves acquired him, the consensus was that they overpaid. But that narrative ignored how well he fits alongside Anthony Edwards and the flexibility the move gave Minnesota in terms of roster construction and cap management.
Knicks fans know the story well. Randle helped turn that franchise around, only to become a lightning rod for criticism.
Last postseason, he answered the long-standing question about his playoff performance by showing up when it mattered most. Still, the praise was muted.
And now, despite a season where he’s been durable, productive, and impactful, Randle finds himself on the outside looking in once again.
The League’s Most Underrated Star?
It’s hard to find another player with Randle’s résumé who gets this little recognition. Coaches vote on the All-Star reserves, which makes this snub even more glaring.
These are people who game-plan against Randle, who see the film, who understand the nuances of his game. And still, he’s left out.
Whether it’s fans, media, or coaches, Randle continues to be a player whose value is underestimated. That doesn’t change the fact that he’s been one of the most important players in the Western Conference this season. It just means the rest of the basketball world still hasn’t caught up.
So while Anthony Edwards rightfully gets his All-Star shine, let’s not forget who’s been right there with him, night in and night out, helping drive Minnesota’s success. Julius Randle may not have the All-Star title this year-but make no mistake, he’s playing like one.