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The All-Star Game is an annual trip for LeBron James, but that might not be the case this year.
For the first time since his rookie season, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer was not named a starter for the All-Star Game.
The starters, chosen by fans, NBA players and members of the media, were revealed earlier this week. Reserves are chosen by NBA head coaches. So James’ fate will be decided by them, or perhaps 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 start of the season with sciatica and returned after 14 games. He started slowly, averaging 14 points per game and ending a streak of 1,297 games with at least 10 points (he got the assist on a buzzer-beater).
But since then, in 18 games, he has been like before, averaging 25.5 points, 6.6 assists and 6.4 rebounds.
Los Angeles Lakers forward Lebron James (23) reacts after scoring a basket while forward Rui Hachimura, left guard, 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 appearing in his 21st consecutive All-Star Game last season, but about 90 minutes before the game he announced he would not play due to foot and ankle discomfort — he had played in each of the previous 20 contests.
James, 41, said he is “TBD” for all back-to-back games the rest of the season due to his age, so perhaps he would enjoy staying home this year. However, he wouldn’t have to travel far, as the game will be played in Inglewood, at the Los Angeles Clippers’ Intuit Dome. James currently plays for their crosstown rivals Lakers.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) speaks to a reporter after the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. (Stephen Lew/Imagn Images)
The game will feature a USA vs. World format, with Silver citing the Winter Olympics and the success of the NHL 4 Nations tournament as reasons for the change in a game that has been boring in recent years.
