For the first time since 2004, an NBA All-Star Game took place without LeBron James. The Los Angeles Lakers star announced just 90 minutes before tipoff on Sunday that he would not be able to play due to ongoing left foot and ankle issues.
James, who was set to play for Shaq’s OGs in the NBA’s new mini-tournament format, has been regularly listed on the Lakers’ injury report this season due to his lingering foot and ankle problems. Despite wanting to play, he ultimately decided to prioritize his health as the Lakers prepare for a playoff push.
“I hate that,” James said about missing the game.
LeBron’s Record-Setting All-Star Streak Ends
- First All-Star absence since 2004
- 20 consecutive All-Star starts – a record – snapped
- 21 total All-Star selections, the most in NBA history
Even though he could not participate, James’ presence was still widely acknowledged. He remains the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and, at nearly 40 years old, continues to perform at an elite level.
Why Did LeBron Sit Out?
- Lingering foot and ankle issues: James has been dealing with chronic pain in his left foot and ankle for years.
- Focus on Lakers’ playoff push: With 30 games remaining, James wants to be fully available as the Lakers fight for postseason positioning in the competitive Western Conference.
- Planned return on Wednesday: The Lakers face Charlotte in a rescheduled game due to wildfires, and James hopes to be ready to play.
“I was hoping that it would feel a lot better this morning, but it’s not where I want it to be,” James explained.
All-Star Team Played Short-Handed
James was not replaced on Shaq’s OGs, meaning his team played with just seven players:
- Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
- Kyrie Irving (Dallas Mavericks)
- Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)
- Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics)
- Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns)
- Damian Lillard (Milwaukee Bucks)
- James Harden (Los Angeles Clippers)
Despite being shorthanded, Shaq’s OGs went on to win the tournament, defeating Chuck’s Global Stars 41-25 in the final.
LeBron’s Incredible Longevity
Even at nearly 40 years old, James continues to defy expectations.
This Season’s Averages:
- 24.3 points per game (lowest of his All-Star seasons but still elite)
- 9 assists per game (second-best pre-All-Star rate of his career)
- 7.7 rebounds per game
- Nearly 40% from three-point range
The only two players in the NBA averaging at least 24.3 points, 9 assists, and 7.7 rebounds this season?
LeBron James and Nikola Jokic.
NBA coaches remain in awe of his continued dominance.
“LeBron can go to 25 All-Star Games if he wanted to,” Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson said.
“Every time you play LeBron, you get to LA and say, ‘This guy keeps getting better. How is this possible?'”
What’s Next for LeBron and the Lakers?
- Planned return: Wednesday, February 21, 2025 vs. Charlotte Hornets
- Lakers’ focus: Playoff push in the Western Conference
- Health monitoring: Continues rehab and maintenance to stay available
James emphasized that his priority is the Lakers and ensuring that he is healthy for the remainder of the season.
“No vacation for me,” James said. “It’s all about getting back and making sure I’m ready.”
