The Los Angeles Lakers anticipate that LeBron James will participate in the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, scheduled to take place this weekend in Los Angeles. This expectation hinges on James avoiding any injury setbacks during the Lakers’ Thursday night game against the Dallas Mavericks.
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, James was officially removed from the injury report before the game and is expected to play in the Lakers’ final contest prior to the All-Star break.
“He’s off the injury report, so we will see him in the lineup tonight against the Mavericks,”
McMenamin stated 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.
James Continues to Set Unmatched Records with All-Star Appearances
At 41 years old, LeBron James stands as the first NBA player ever to be selected for 22 consecutive All-Star games, a streak spanning over three different decades and pushing the boundaries of the league’s standards for longevity. His remarkable career has redefined expectations for veteran players.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had been the only player to earn multiple All-Star selections past the age of 40, but James has surpassed that with three post-40 All-Star nods, placing him in unprecedented territory.
This season, James was picked as a Western Conference reserve, ending his record run of 21 straight All-Star starts. Despite this change, the importance of James’ presence in the game remains significant.
“No, not at all. I’m always grateful,”
James said in January when asked about not being named a starter.
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.
Significance of the All-Star Game Returning to Los Angeles
James’ participation in the 2026 All-Star Game gains added meaning as the event returns to Los Angeles, although hosted by the Los Angeles Clippers, the Lakers’ city rivals. James has a notable history playing in Los Angeles-hosted All-Star Games, including his MVP performance in 2018.
“He will be at the All-Star Game,”
McMenamin noted.
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.
Last year, James missed the All-Star Game with a foot injury, a late withdrawal that was met with criticism throughout the league.
Controversy Surrounding James’ Previous All-Star Withdrawal
James’ late decision to skip the 2025 All-Star Game drew backlash from former players and analysts, including his ex-teammate Kendrick Perkins. The delayed announcement was seen as denying another deserving player an opportunity.
“Norman Powell could have made his first All-Star appearance.”
Perkins wrote on X, expressing frustration over the timing.
Powell is set to make his All-Star debut this year after being traded from the Clippers to the Miami Heat, marking a significant career milestone.
Other critics such as Draymond Green, Vince Carter, and Jalen Rose echoed similar views, arguing that an earlier notice would have allowed another player to participate.
“I think LeBron could have helped somebody else out and said this earlier,”
Green commented during the previous controversy.
Fatigue Remains a Concern for James Ahead of the Break
Although expected to play, fatigue has been a persistent issue for James in recent weeks. Following Monday’s loss to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder, he admitted feeling worn down after leading a second-half scoring effort.
“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 subsequently sat out the next game in a heavy 136–108 loss to the San Antonio Spurs, alongside teammates Austin Reaves and Luka Dončić, both sidelined as well.
Lakers Aim to Build Momentum and Health Before the All-Star Break
The Lakers’ immediate focus is maintaining competitiveness and avoiding injuries as the first half of the season concludes. The All-Star break presents James an important opportunity to rest and regain energy, even if only briefly.
If James manages to stay healthy through the upcoming Dallas match, he is anticipated to take part in the All-Star Game again, further extending a career distinguished not only by unparalleled excellence but also by extraordinary endurance seldom witnessed in the NBA.
New video: Joined @SportsCenter with @HannahStormESPN to discuss Luka, LeBron and their All-Star availability pic.twitter.com/mGdPd54oRi
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) February 12, 2026
Lebron on the all star game:
"If I'm there, I'll be there in attendance, if I'm not, I know I'll be able to take full advantage of it. I know exactly what I'll be doing, so I'm good either way" pic.twitter.com/yM4GIBmDfr
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) January 21, 2026
Could have said this earlier. Norman Powell could have made his first All-Star appearance. SMH https://t.co/LqqLHR7A11
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) February 16, 2025
Draymond Green: "I think [LeBron James] coulda helped somebody else out and said this earlier…"
Vince Carter: "There are a lot of guys who are worthy."
Jalen Rose: "He took a roster spot from somebody." #NBA https://t.co/O7qOijgsZN pic.twitter.com/hupGx4NZlT
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 17, 2025
