LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
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LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers walks out during team introductions prior to the game against the Toronto Raptors at Crypto.com Arena.
LeBron James is once again keeping the NBA world guessing.
The Los Angeles Lakers superstar did not confirm whether he will play in Sunday’s NBA All-Star Game, opting instead to delay any announcement until the final hours of the weekend — a familiar pattern that has become part of the All-Star intrigue surrounding the league’s most enduring figure.
Lakers Star Skips All-Star Media Day, Sets Sunday Availability
On Saturday, the NBA announced that James would skip the traditional All-Star Media Day and instead hold a separate press conference on Sunday morning.
“LeBron James will not be present for today’s NBA All-Star Media Day and will be made available on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. PT in the press conference room,” NBA media relations said in a statement.
The move immediately reignited speculation about James’ status for the game, particularly given his recent comments emphasizing rest over spectacle.
LeBron James All-Star Game Status Comes into Focus
James’ hesitation comes on the heels of another milestone performance. In Thursday’s 124–104 victory over the Dallas Mavericks, the 41-year-old recorded 28 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds — becoming the oldest player in NBA history to log a triple-double.
That performance pushed James past Karl Malone, who previously held the record since 2003.
After the game, James made clear that managing his workload remains a priority.
“Trying to figure out how to get some rest,” James told reporters. “Obviously, Sunday will be Sunday, and I’m super grateful for that — to be a part of All-Star weekend again and be part of the big game. And then try to find some rest.”
Unmatched Longevity Rewrites NBA Record Book
This weekend alone adds another unprecedented line to James’ résumé. He is now the first player in NBA history to earn 22 consecutive All-Star selections, a streak that spans three decades and 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 nods beyond age 40, further cementing his place in uncharted territory.
James was named a Western Conference reserve this season, ending his record run of 21 straight 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 not starting. “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.”
Last Year’s Late Scratch Still Lingers
James’ All-Star status has been scrutinized before. He sat out last year’s game due to a foot injury, announcing his decision late and drawing criticism across the league.
Former Cavaliers teammate and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins was among those who questioned the timing.
“Could have said this earlier,” Perkins wrote on X. “Norman Powell could have made his first All-Star appearance.”
Powell ultimately made his All-Star debut this season after being traded by the Los Angeles Clippers to the Miami Heat.
Similar sentiments were echoed last year 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.
Could LeBron Chase One More All-Star First?
James missed the first 14 games of the season due to an early injury, but his recent play suggests he remains far from finished. If he does suit up Sunday in Los Angeles, he could add yet another line to his résumé by becoming the oldest All-Star MVP in league history.
The last time James played an All-Star Game in Los Angeles — in 2018 — he walked away with MVP honors.
“He will be at the All-Star Game,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin said on SportsCenter. “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.”
Whether James plays or not, the suspense alone underscores his singular presence — even in year 22, the NBA’s biggest weekend still waits on LeBron’s decision.