LeBron James is still the face of the NBA after 22 seasons in the league. However, the 40-year-old had some fans as well as former players up in arms against him. James revealed in a random interview hours before the event that he would not be playing in the NBA’s All-Star game. The game has already been torn apart by fans and players alike, dropping this bombshell on an already hated event made things about ten times worse.
Reports from Basketball Network, claim that after the shocking news that LeBron James would not suit up for the 2025 NBA All-Star game, LBJ’s former teammate had a lot to say. Kendrick Perkins, since becoming an analyst for ESPN, has made a living with his extremely bold takes. However, this time, many seem to agree with Perkins’ opinion. The analyst would post on X saying that LeBron “Could have said this earlier.” Perkins would then explain that another deserving player could have taken James’ spot in the game. However, since LBJ waited until the very last minute to announce his absence from the event, that was impossible.
The NBA World Reacts to LeBron James Sitting Out From the All-Star Game
This also led many social media users to share their thoughts regarding the situation.
“I don’t like Perk, but I agree with him on this,” one said.
Another stated, “Bron fans don’t understand it’s not about watching Norm Powell. It’s about someone being recognized for their career MIP-type year.”
Finally, another wrote, “Is there anyone who actually likes Kendrick Perkins?”
It seems as though while some fans agree with Perk, others do not care that LeBron backed out of the game.
On top of the LeBron controversy, this year’s NBA All-Star game has not been well received. Draymond Green even gave the new format a zero out of ten on live television. Although James has been dealing with foot soreness on and off, this may be another reason The King decided to sit this one out. The league has fumbled to get the All-Star game in shape for years now. The players and fans have seemingly just lost interest. Draymond and NBA legend Vince Carter also shared their issues with LeBron backing out at the last minute. The two agreed with Kendrick Perkins’ earlier statement that someone else could have taken that spot.
However, as for LeBron James, the athlete has allegedly indirectly apologized for his actions. While James did not speak on the issue himself, a source close to the NBA star reportedly stated James’ regret for him. Although LeBron was wrong to back out so last minute, there are two sides to every coin. With the addition of Luka Doncic by the Los Angeles Lakers, James may be in a win-now mindset. Can The King chase his fifth NBA championship, or is this just a pipe dream?
