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The All-Star Game has been an annual trip for LeBron James, but that may not be the case this year.
For the first time since his rookie season, the NBA’s leading scorer was not named an All-Star Game starter.
Starters chosen by fans, NBA players and members of the media were revealed earlier this week. Reserves are selected by NBA head coaches. James’ fate will thus be decided by them, or possibly even NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
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LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts during their game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on January 12, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
James missed the beginning of the season with sciatica and returned after 14 games. He started slowly, averaging 14 points per game. game, ending a streak of 1,297 games in which he scored at least 10 points (he got the assist on a buzzer-beater).
But in 18 games since then, he’s been his normal self, averaging 25.5 points, 6.6 assists and 6.4 rebounds.
Los Angeles Lakers forward Lebron James (23) reacts after scoring a basket as forward Rui Hachimura, back left, looks on during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Sacramento Kings, Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jessie Alcheh)
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James extended his NBA record by playing in his 21st consecutive All-Star Game last season, but about 90 minutes before the contest, he announced he would not play because of foot and ankle discomfort — he had played in each of the previous 20 contests.
James, 41, actually said he was “TBD” for any back-to-back games for the rest of the season due to his age, so perhaps he would welcome a stay at home this year. However, he would not have to travel far, as the game will be played in Inglewood at the Los Angeles Clippers’ Intuit Dome. James currently plays for their cross-town rival the Lakers.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) talks to a reporter after the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. (Stephen Lew/Imagn Images)
The game will have a USA vs. World format, as Silver cited the Winter Olympics and the success of the NHL’s 4 Nations tournament as reasons for the change amid dull play in recent years.
