NBA All-Star starters getting announced last Thursday on TNT, the attention shifts to the potential reserves this week. The Western Conference, as usual, has a deep pool of players to choose from and will inevitably have at least a few "snubs.

On X, Evan Sidery proposed a multi-team blockbuster deal with the Heat sending Jimmy Butler to Phoenix while acquiring multiple assets in return.

Fox, 27, is still the celebrated face of the Kings' 2023 turnaround—having averaged 25 points per game that year and made the All-NBA team. However, Sacramento has found sledding tough ever since, leaving Fox's future up in the air.

I checked in on the crowded field of Eastern Conference wild card hopefuls to see where each team stood. The Columbus Blue Jackets and Ottawa Senators have played well enough in the interim, and I’m still bullish about their chances.

That leaves seven spots to fill in the West — two in the backcourt and three in the frontcourt, along with a pair of wild cards. The reserves will be voted on by NBA coaches, not fans, but we want to get your feedback today on which players have earned those spots.

The Anaheim Ducks have put themselves in position to play meaningful games in the season's second half and possibly join the hunt for a playoff spot.

BOTTOM LINE: Phoenix plays Golden State in Western Conference action Friday. The Warriors are 1-8 in division play. Golden State is ninth in the league allowing just 111.3 points per game while holding opponents to 46.0% shooting. The Suns are 15-11 against conference opponents. Phoenix has a 13-16 record against teams over .500.

BOTTOM LINE: The Los Angeles Clippers visit the Charlotte Hornets in non-conference play. The Hornets are 8-16 in home games. Charlotte ranks third in the league with 13.0 offensive rebounds per game led by Mark Williams averaging 3.3 offensive boards.

Alexander-Walker was all over the place in Phoenix, and it meant everything to a team that was trying to find an identity.

The Golden State Warriors are expected to be active ahead of the Feb. 6 NBA trade deadline, but they are running out of options.

Ware has surged to the top of the rookie class, showcasing his ability to dominate alongside Bam Adebayo. With Jimmy Butler suspended indefinitely, the Heat inserted Ware into the starting lineup and it looks like that'll hold for the foreseeable future.