Ben Simmons has again been snubbed by NBA All-Stars selectors, missing out to Andre Drummond to replace the injured guard John Wall.
Star Philadelphia point guard Simmons was thought a chance to be called up after Washington's Wall was sidelined from the February 18 showpiece game with a knee injury.
After missing out on initial selection despite a high fan vote, Simmons' hopes of becoming the first Australian All-Star have again been dashed after being overlooked for Detroit centre Drummond.
Drummond will take his place on LeBron James' team for the match at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles.
He averages 14.7 points and 15 rebounds this season, compared to Simmons' 16.6 points, 7.9 rebounds and 7.3 assists.
The 21-year-old Simmons ranks third in the league for number of triple-doubles this season.
His non-selection means he's set to miss the opportunity to join NBA legends Michael Jordan, Shaquille O'Neal, Patrick Ewing and David Robinson in becoming an All-Star in his rookie season.
Wall will have arthroscopic surgery on his left knee on Wednesday, with his recovery timeline unknown.
A person with direct knowledge of the injury has told the Associated Press that Wall could miss six to eight weeks.
"Over the last week, we saw he was dragging a little bit. ... (we) decided going forward that it would be best for him to get a little cleanout," Wizards coach Scott Brooks said.
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