The starters for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game have been announced and for the first time in 22 years, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James was not among them. For 21 consecutive seasons, through multiple teams, both conferences and numerous formats, LeBron was a starter in the All-Star Game, but now that unreal streak has come to an end.
James not being a starter this season does make some sense as he missed the first 14 games of the season due to sciatica. Additionally, it took some time for him to get his legs under him upon returning and find his rhythm, though he is now in full form and proving he is still one of the best players in the NBA today.
Of course, just because he’s not starting doesn’t mean he won’t be in the game period as there is a strong chance he will be named as a reserve. And Lakers head coach JJ Redick believes that will be the case, via Spectrum SportsNet:
“Obviously knew there was a possibility. I have not paid attention to all the voting returns, I do know in that first one I think he was sixth in the West. Given the missed games early, wasn’t surprised. I believe he’ll be in the All-Star Game. Really excited for Luka. We texted last night. I think it’s a great accomplishment for him. I just actually got the email this afternoon, I just did my All-Star voting and there’s a lot of great players in the West. It really is.”
There is no doubt that the Western Conference is full of great players deserving to be an All-Star this season. Anthony Edwards, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Alperen Sengun, Devin Booker and many others will all be fighting it out for those reserve spots, but LeBron undoubtedly deserves to be in that conversation as well.
Whether the new USA vs. the World format will help or hurt James make his 22nd NBA All-Star Game is unclear, but Redick believes he will be there for another All-Star Game as has been the case for more than two decades now.
Lakers’ LeBron James unbothered by NBA All-Star Game starting streak ending
One person who doesn’t care about that streak ending is James himself. When asked about it, the Lakers superstar said he has no reaction to not being named a starter while adding that if isn’t named a reserve, he will be just fine too.
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