Draymond Green has surprisingly hit the mark on one particular topic, despite often being known for his unpredictable nature. This week, the 2026 NBA All-Star Game starters were revealed, selected by a combination of fan, player, and media votes. The Eastern Conference starters include Giannis Antetokounmpo, Cade Cunningham, Tyrese Maxey, Jalen Brunson, and Jaylen Brown, while the Western Conference features Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Stephen Curry, and Victor Wembanyama. Notably absent is LeBron James, who had an NBA-record streak of 21 consecutive All-Star starts.
LeBron finished ninth overall, trailing the chosen starters alongside players like Anthony Edwards, Deni Avdija, and Kevin Durant. While the starting lineup seems justified—with Steph Curry still highly ranked due to his skill and popularity, and Durant continuing to impress by moving up the all-time scoring list—LeBron’s absence raises important questions. Despite missing the first 14 games of the season with sciatica and a slight dip in his stats, LeBron’s performance at 41 and across 23 seasons remains commendable.
The announcement of All-Star reserves, chosen by NBA coaches, will come on February 1st. Green anticipated this debate about LeBron’s place and firmly defended him on his podcast, stating, “There’s no world in which LeBron James wouldn’t be an All-Star,” emphasizing LeBron’s iconic status within the league.
Green’s point is crucial—criticisms of LeBron’s potential exclusion should be silenced out of respect for his legacy. Imagining an All-Star Game without LeBron, especially if it ends up being his final one in Los Angeles, feels almost unthinkable. While it’s uncertain if LeBron will retire after this season, the strong suspicion is he might follow a farewell tour like Kobe Bryant did, bidding adieu to fans city by city rather than quietly fading away.
Yet, not everyone agrees. NBA analyst Tracy McGrady recently suggested LeBron shouldn’t be an All-Star, and Kevin Garnett echoed that sentiment, claiming LeBron himself is reluctant to participate. Garnett also recalled the 2012 All-Star Game when LeBron passed the ball in a crucial moment instead of taking the shot, which some saw as damaging to the spirit of the game. This incident remains a sore spot for critics who see LeBron as having diminished the event’s excitement.
Given that the All-Star Game is more about entertainment than strict meritocracy, LeBron’s global brand presence makes him a perfect ambassador, especially within the NBA’s newer America versus World format. The bigger question is who coaches will pick for the remaining Western Conference reserves. With spots to fill, notable players include Durant, Jamal Murray, Alperen Sengun, Deni Avdija, Devin Booker, Chet Holmgren, Kawhi Leonard, Austin Reaves, and LeBron himself.
Some contenders face challenges due to injuries or limited games, such as Reaves and Leonard, who have both been sidelined recently. Avdija has stepped up well for the Blazers after Jrue Holiday’s injury, Booker has helped the Suns shine unexpectedly, and Holmgren is a strong candidate for Defensive Player of the Year, making all three deserving of All-Star recognition.
Among these talents, LeBron appears to be the odd one out. However, LeBron remains unfazed by the possibility of exclusion from the team, stating, “I’ll be fine either way.” If so, commissioner Adam Silver might consider honoring LeBron with a special legacy selection, much like he did with Dirk Nowitzki and Dwyane Wade in 2019, and as was done with Magic Johnson decades ago. These gestures celebrate legendary players and add unforgettable moments to the All-Star experience.
With LeBron’s career winding down, it’s only fitting he dons an All-Star jersey one last time to play alongside the league’s top stars—whether through votes or special commissioner action. Regardless of how he gets in, LeBron’s presence is essential. To echo Draymond Green one final time, there simply is no alternative.
Fan Take:
LeBron’s potential absence from the All-Star Game would mark the end of an era for one of basketball’s greatest icons, making this moment deeply significant for fans and the sport’s legacy. Ensuring he participates honors not just his impressive career but also preserves the spirit and global appeal of the NBA while inspiring the next generation of players.
