Joel Embiid Left Off 2026 All-Star Reserve List-But That Might Be a Blessing in Disguise
The 2026 NBA All-Star reserves are out, and Joel Embiid’s name is nowhere to be found. That’s a tough pill to swallow considering what he’s done on the court this season. But when you dig into the context, there’s more to the story-and maybe even a silver lining.
Here’s the list of Eastern Conference reserves: Donovan Mitchell, Jalen Johnson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Pascal Siakam, Norman Powell, Scottie Barnes, and Jalen Duren. Solid players, no question. But it’s hard to look at that group and not wonder how Embiid didn’t make the cut.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about talent. Embiid is averaging 26 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4 assists per game-numbers that speak for themselves.
He’s been a force on both ends of the floor, anchoring the Sixers with his usual blend of power, finesse, and high basketball IQ. His January alone was a statement month, outpacing what guys like Duren, Barnes, Siakam, and even Towns have done across the season.
So why the snub? It comes down to availability.
Embiid has played in 28 of Philadelphia’s 48 games-just under 60%. That’s likely the deciding factor for coaches and voters who had to weigh production against participation.
Fair or not, it’s a reality in All-Star selections: availability often trumps impact when the margins are tight.
Still, it’s hard to ignore the optics. Towns, for example, has been the subject of trade chatter among Knicks fans on a near-nightly basis.
That doesn’t exactly scream “All-Star lock.” And while Barnes and Duren are having breakout years, neither has matched Embiid’s level of dominance, even in limited action.
But here’s the thing: maybe this isn’t the worst outcome for the Sixers or for Embiid himself.
The All-Star Game is, at its core, an exhibition. Flashy, fun, but ultimately inconsequential.
What is consequential? Keeping Embiid healthy.
The Sixers have done a much better job this season managing his minutes and workload, and the results are showing. He’s looked fresher, more explosive, and more consistent than in years past.
Skipping the All-Star festivities could help maintain that rhythm heading into the stretch run.
And let’s not rule out the possibility that Embiid still makes it. With Giannis Antetokounmpo currently sidelined, there’s a good chance Embiid gets the nod as an injury replacement. It wouldn’t be the first time an All-Star snub ends up taking the floor anyway.
But whether or not he suits up in the midseason showcase, the bottom line remains: Joel Embiid is playing at an All-Star level. The numbers back it up.
The eye test confirms it. And if he keeps this up through the spring, the All-Star omission will be a footnote in what could be a much bigger story for the Sixers.