LeBron James, Lakers
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Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers in action against the Sacramento Kings at Crypto.com Arena on December 28, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
The Los Angeles Lakers expect LeBron James to participate in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game this weekend in Los Angeles — barring any setback in Thursday night’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks.
ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported ahead of tipoff that James was removed from the injury report and is scheduled to play in the Lakers’ final game before the All-Star break.
“He’s off the injury report, so we will see him in the lineup tonight against the Mavericks,” McMenamin said on SportsCenter. “This Lakers group had built some momentum before this injury, and they’re hoping they can go into the All-Star break on a high note by getting a win against Dallas.”
Lakers Star Continues Unprecedented All-Star Longevity
At 41, James is the first player in NBA history to earn 22 consecutive All-Star selections, a streak that now spans three decades and further separates him from every longevity benchmark the league has known.
Only Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had previously earned multiple All-Star selections after turning 40. James has now surpassed that mark with three All-Star nods beyond age 40, extending his place in uncharted territory.
James was named a Western Conference reserve this season, ending a record run of 21 consecutive All-Star starts. While the designation marked a shift, it did little to diminish the significance of yet another appearance.
“No, not at all. I’m always grateful,” James said in January when asked about the starter snub. “If I’m there, I’ll be there in attendance. If I’m not, I know exactly what I’ll be doing. I’m good either way.”
History Looms in Los Angeles
James’ expected participation carries added significance with the All-Star Game returning to Los Angeles, though hosted by their crosstown rival Clippers. The last time he played in an All-Star Game hosted in the city — in 2018 — James was named MVP.
“He will be at the All-Star Game,” McMenamin said. “He hasn’t played as much in recent years. Last year, he didn’t play at all, and the two years before that, he played about 15 minutes. I wouldn’t expect a full allotment of minutes, but getting out there in L.A., you never know.”
James sat out last year’s All-Star Game with a foot injury after a late announcement that sparked leaguewide criticism.
LeBron’s Past All-Star Absence Drew League Pushback
The timing of James’ decision not to play in the 2025 All-Star Game drew scrutiny from several former players and analysts, including his former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate Kendrick Perkins.
“Could have said this earlier,” Perkins wrote on X. “Norman Powell could have made his first All-Star appearance.”
This year, Powell will make his All-Star debut after moving to the Eastern Conference with a trade to the Miami Heat in the offseason.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Draymond Green, Vince Carter, and Jalen Rose, all of whom argued that a late withdrawal deprived another player of a deserved opportunity.
“I think LeBron could have helped somebody else out and said this earlier,” Green said at the time.
Fatigue Still a Factor Entering Break
While James is expected to suit up, fatigue has clearly been part of the conversation.
Following Monday’s loss to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, James admitted he was feeling worn down after scoring 14 of his 22 points in the second half of a failed comeback.
“I’m kind of tired…,” James told reporters. “I’m 41. My patience for irritation is being very, very low as the days go on.”
He sat out the following night as the Lakers were routed 136–108 by the San Antonio Spurs, with Austin Reaves and Luka Dončić also sidelined.
Lakers Hope Break Restores Momentum
For now, the Lakers are focused on closing the first half of the season healthy and competitive, with the All-Star break offering James a chance to recharge — even if only briefly.
Barring any unforeseen development against Dallas, James is expected to take the All-Star stage once again, extending a career defined not just by greatness, but by durability the NBA has never seen.