Doc Rivers Disappointed James Harden Didn’t Make All-Star Game

Many were shocked to find out that Philadelphia 76ers guard James Harden would not make it to this year’s All-Star game. When the league announced the reserves on Thursday, Sixers center Joel Embiid was the first name mentioned, as expected, since many believed he would crack the starting rotation.

Along with Embiid, one could’ve assumed that Harden would be the second player to represent the Sixers in the All-Star game this year. However, his name was never called.

Embiid rushed to Twitter to tell the NBA that they have some explaining to do. Harden went to Instagram to throw up a cryptic message about him being snubbed.

Meanwhile, Sixers head coach Doc Rivers spoke with Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Gina Mizell on Friday to express his disappointment in the results.

“I didn’t even think it would be a question,” said Rivers, per Mizell. “For him not to be on the All-Star team when, at the time that voting went in, we were the second seed — Boston has two, Milwaukee has two, we have one. I think your record should matter, I think James Harden’s numbers should matter, and I do think a history of his work should matter. This is maybe something that we should consider having coaches votes public. … This never should have happened.”

Rivers expressed his disappointment in the All-Star voting process numerous times over the last week as he felt that Embiid should’ve been a sure starter. Now, he’s in disbelief that Harden won’t even make the game as a reserve, which marks the first time Harden isn’t an All-Star in 11 years.

As the head coach mentioned, the record is there. Sitting at 34-17, the Sixers are the third seed in the Eastern Conference. Among the East’s top four squads, the Sixers are the only organization with fewer than two All-Stars.

As for personal numbers, Harden has appeared in 35 games this year. During that time, he’s averaged 21 points, six rebounds, 11 assists, and one steal. From the field, he’s knocked down 45 percent of his shots and drained 40 percent of his threes.

This year, Harden is averaging around the same amount of points while shooting significantly better compared to last season when he was voted an All-Star. He’s also averaging more assists as he’s continued to embrace a larger role as a facilitator rather than a scorer.

Rivers and the Sixers might see Harden as an All-Star prospect this year, but the voters didn’t see it the same way. Instead, Donovan Mitchell, Kyrie Irving, Jrue Holiday, and Tyrese Haliburton will be the guards representing the East.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.