Draymond Green Urges NBA to Ensure LeBron James Makes All-Star Game Amid Voting Concerns
Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James is facing the real possibility of missing the NBA All-Star Game for the first time since his rookie season—ending a historic streak that has lasted 21 consecutive years.
Early fan voting returns place James ninth among Western Conference players, a troubling position under the league’s updated All-Star format. With positions no longer determining starters, only the top five vote-getters in each conference earn starting spots, making James’ path significantly more difficult than in previous years.
The situation has sparked debate across the league, including strong public commentary from an unlikely supporter: Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green.
Draymond Green: “The NBA Better Figure It Out”
On his podcast, Green voiced concern over the possibility of James being left out entirely, urging the league to ensure the four-time NBA champion is included—one way or another.
“Does he get voted in from the coaches as a reserve? And I don’t know, he’s only played 14 games,” Green said. “I don’t know how they’re looking at this or what they’ll do. But what I know is they better make sure he is—like, it’s LeBron James, and he’s who he is to this league.”
Green acknowledged James’ early-season injury and limited availability but argued that LeBron’s impact on the NBA transcends traditional selection criteria.
“I don’t know the right answer other than figure it out,” Green added.
Once fierce rivals during their Finals battles, Green and James have developed mutual respect over the years. Green has increasingly emerged as one of LeBron’s most vocal defenders, especially when it comes to league recognition and legacy.
Is LeBron James Too Important to Miss the All-Star Game?
Green’s stance raises an uncomfortable question for the NBA: Is LeBron James too important to exclude, regardless of voting results?
From a business and entertainment standpoint, the argument has merit. This season’s All-Star format emphasizes international stars vs. American players, and many fans are eager to see iconic veterans like:
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LeBron James
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Stephen Curry
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Kevin Durant
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James Harden
sharing the same roster one more time.
Despite a slow start caused by injury, James has elevated his play over the last several games—particularly with the Lakers missing Austin Reaves—boosting his scoring and overall efficiency.
If fan voting picks up or coaches decide to reward his recent play and leadership, James could still earn a reserve spot. However, unlike previous seasons, nothing is guaranteed.
Has Draymond Gone Too Far?
While Green’s loyalty to James is clear, critics argue his demand stretches reality.
LeBron has not indicated this is his final season, nor has he framed the year as a farewell tour. Historically, the NBA has only made honorary All-Star selections under very specific circumstances.
Commissioner Adam Silver previously added:
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Dirk Nowitzki
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Dwyane Wade
to the All-Star Game during their officially announced retirement seasons—moves that were part of league-wide celebrations.
Without a similar announcement from James, the league is unlikely to bend its rules solely based on star power.
What Are LeBron’s Realistic Paths to the All-Star Game?
Despite the concern, LeBron James still has several legitimate avenues to make the roster:
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Fan Voting Surge – A late push could move him into contention.
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Coaches’ Selection – Respect from peers could earn him a reserve spot.
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Injury Replacement – A common outcome most seasons, especially with multiple stars sitting out.
What remains unlikely is an outright commissioner’s honorary selection, absent a retirement declaration.
Will the NBA Act?
The league faces a balancing act between honoring merit and recognizing legacy. While LeBron James remains one of the most influential players in NBA history, the All-Star Game has traditionally adhered to its voting structure—especially in non-farewell seasons.
For now, James’ fate rests with fans, coaches, and circumstance—not with special exceptions, no matter how loudly Draymond Green protests.
Final Thoughts
LeBron James missing the All-Star Game would be shocking—but not impossible. It would mark the end of one of the most remarkable streaks in NBA history and underscore the league’s shifting landscape as younger stars take center stage.
Whether he earns a spot through votes, respect, or replacement, the conversation itself highlights just how powerful LeBron’s presence remains—on the court and within the NBA’s cultural identity.
