Were Any Atlanta Hawks Snubbed From Rising Stars Game?

Checking out the rosters of the NBA Rising Star Game, which features just one member of the Atlanta Hawks.

Despite being one of the youngest teams in the league, just one member of the Atlanta Hawks was named to the NBA Rising Stars Game on Friday. The annual contest features the brightest rookies and sophomores in a USA vs. International format. Ten rising stars are picked for both teams. The full roster is below.

There has been much debate about the snubs and selections, with Jaxson Hayes and Matisse Thybulle both going public with their displeasure of being left out. With just ten U.S roster to spots to hand out, there was always going to be some snubbing going on.

Trae Young made the game for the second straight season, recording a double-double with 25 points and ten assists last year. He shared the court with fellow Hawk John Collins, earned a starting role as a sophmore.

This year, Trae is the lone Hawk in the game, with Kevin Huerter, Cam Reddish and De’Andre Hunter all missing a spot. Were they snubbed?

In a less talented year, they probably would be considered snubbed, but there was simply too much talent this season to see them be seriously considered.

Kevin Huerter probably had a better shot than the two rookies, but he’s been quiet of late and missed a good chunk of the season with injury. If Cam Reddish played throughout the entire season like he did in January, he definitely would have been close.

To be honest however, no one else besides Trae should have made the team given the other snubs. Collin Sexton, Thybulle and Michael Porter, Jr all were left off and more deserving.

However, I would make the case that at least Kevin Huerter should get in over Zion Williamson. His addition via an injury to Wendell Carter was either based on his name or the four games he’s played this season. I’ll let you pick which one that was.

At least Trae Young will be there to represent as a starter. The game is scheduled for Valentine’s Day, February 14th at 9:00 EST.