Top 3 players who will miss 2023 NBA All-Star Game and players who can replace them: All you need to know
The 2023 NBA All-Star Game is just around the corner. This year's exciting weekend of All-Star festivities is set to take place in Salt Lake City.
Both All-Star rosters have been announced and feature an impressive amount of deserving talent. With teams still having games remaining before they reach the break, there have been some injuries to take note of.
Although some of the game's top superstars have been selected to the ASG on Feb. 19, some won't be able to play. While basketball stars are always eager to show out against the top players in the league, they also have to look after their health for the stretch run.
Here's a look at some of the notable players who have announced that they won't be playing in the 2023 NBA All-Star game, as well as some potential replacement candiates.
Top 3 players who will miss the 2023 NBA All-Star game and potential replacements
#3, Zion Williamson
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson was having a sensational 2022-23 season. When healthy, Williamson and the Pelicans looked like one of the most dangerous teams in the Western Conference. Williamson hasn't played since Jan. 4, when he suffered a hamstring injury.
Zion Williamson will miss the All-Star game, per @_Andrew_Lopez https://t.co/kLC6frtpxF
It's been announced that Williamson is expected to miss the ASG. Zion is averaging 26.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.6 assists per game.
Potential replacements for Williamson could include Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam or Minnesota Timberwolves wing Anthony Edwards.
#2, Kevin Durant
The Brooklyn Nets have been one of the most fascinating teams in the NBA throughout the season. After a slow start, Brooklyn caught fire and was looking like a potential title contender in the Eastern Conference. One of the main reasons why was the spectacular play of superstar forward Kevin Durant, averaging 29.7 points, 6.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game while shooting 55.9%.
After suffering an MCL sprain, Durant was hoping to return ahead of the All-Star game. But now Durant is expected to miss the game.
Potential replacements for Durant could include Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden or Miami Heat wing Jimmy Butler.
#1, Steph Curry
One of the biggest players not participating in the 2023 NBA All-Star game is Golden State Warriors superstar Steph Curry. The Warriors have had a roller coaster of a first half of the season. That includes Curry himself, who has twice dealt with injuries.
When Curry has been on the court, he's been his usual self when it comes to dominating opponents. He's averaging 29.4 points, 6.3 rebounds and 6.4 assists this season while shooting 42.7% from 3-point range. Curry recently suffered a leg injury and is expected to be out multiple weeks.
Potential replacements for Curry include Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox, Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young or Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland.