LeBron James was not voted an All-Star Game starter for the first time in two decades. However, the Los Angeles Lakers was voted into the game as a reserve.
The 41-year-old forward is averaging 21.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 6.6 assists per game. He's shooting 50.5 percent from the field. However, LeBron has only played in 31 of the team's 48 games this season.
Did LeBron deserve an All-Star Game nod?
Some fans are accusing the NBA of "fixing" LeBron's All-Star Game voting total. LeBron was chosen to make the game by the league's coaches.
Jan 24, 2026; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) looks to move the ball against the Dallas Mavericks during the game at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
"James effectively stole a roster spot from guys actually carrying their teams this season. The list of snubs is long and egregious, including San Antonio's De'Aaron Fox, Houston's Alperen Sengun and Utah's Lauri Markkanen," one critic wrote.
"The most insulting part is that Clippers stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden will watch the game from their own couch while the festivities are held at their brand-new home venue, the Intuit Dome in Inglewood. The math behind this All-Star selection does not add up."
NBA fans sound off on LeBron's selection
While many NBA fans are happy to see LeBron back in the All-Star Game, others feel it was undeserved.
"I'm a well-known LeBron stan, but LeBron over Kawhi for an All-Star slot is a flat out farce. If you want to get LeBron into the game through injury replacement or special commissioner selection, fine, but Kawhi has been significantly better than him this year," one fan wrote.
"LeBron making this year's All-Star team over Kawhi is simply absurd," one fan added.
"LeBron making the All-Star game this season is an absolute joke," another fan added.
What do you make of LeBron getting a spot?
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