The 2026 NBA All-Star Game rosters are officially set, and the headlines are already writing themselves. Let’s start with the biggest one: LeBron James is back-again. The Lakers’ icon will suit up for his 22nd consecutive All-Star appearance, extending a record that continues to defy time, injury, and the ever-evolving landscape of the league.
LeBron James: 22 and Counting
There was some real chatter about whether LeBron would make the cut this year. After all, he’s only played in 30 of the Lakers’ first 47 games.
But when you’re still putting up 21.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 6.6 assists per night at age 41, and you’re LeBron James, the bar is just different. His impact goes beyond the box score-he’s still a focal point of the Lakers’ offense and a draw for fans around the world.
This selection pushes him three clear of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s 19 All-Star appearances, a stat that underscores just how long and how consistently dominant LeBron’s career has been. He didn’t make it as a rookie, but he hasn’t missed an All-Star Game since. That’s two decades of excellence, endurance, and relevance.
USA vs. The World: A New Format, Familiar Faces
This year’s All-Star Game will feature a USA vs. The World format-a twist that’s sure to add a competitive edge and showcase the NBA’s global talent pipeline.
Two teams will be made up of American players, while a third will feature international stars. The full rosters drop Tuesday, and the game tips off on February 15 at the Intuit Dome, home of the Clippers.
First-Time All-Stars: Murray, Powell, and the Next Wave
While LeBron continues to make history, the All-Star stage will also welcome five newcomers, each carving out their own narrative this season.
- Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets): In his ninth year, Murray is finally getting the All-Star nod many felt was overdue. After an offseason filled with trade rumors, he’s responded with the best season of his career. He’s been the steady hand next to Nikola Jokić, and now he’s getting national recognition.
- Norman Powell (Miami Heat): At 32 and in his 11th NBA season, Powell’s All-Star debut is a testament to perseverance. He’s been a key offensive engine for Miami, stepping up in a big way this year and delivering consistent scoring night after night.
- Deni Avdija (Portland Trail Blazers): Avdija’s development has been one of the bright spots for the Blazers this season. The former lottery pick has grown into a versatile contributor, and his selection reflects his all-around impact.
- Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder): Holmgren’s rookie campaign has been nothing short of electric. He’s brought rim protection, floor spacing, and a unique skill set to a young OKC team that’s turning heads.
- Jalen Duren (Detroit Pistons): Duren has been a double-double machine and a rare bright spot for Detroit. His physicality and presence in the paint have earned him a spot among the league’s elite, even as the Pistons continue to rebuild.
The Snubs: Embiid Headlines a Tough Crowd Left Out
Of course, with every selection comes a wave of debate over who didn’t make it. And this year, the biggest omission is Joel Embiid.
The reigning MVP has played just 26 games, but when he’s been on the court, he’s been his usual dominant self. The argument is simple: If LeBron made it with 30 games played, shouldn’t Embiid’s 26 be enough?
But context matters. LeBron’s legacy and potential final season narrative likely played a role.
Embiid, as great as he’s been, doesn’t carry that same storyline this year.
Other notable snubs include:
- Brandon Ingram (Toronto Raptors): A consistent scorer who’s been solid all season.
- Dillon Brooks (Phoenix Suns): Love him or hate him, Brooks has brought defensive tenacity and improved scoring.
- Kawhi Leonard & James Harden (Los Angeles Clippers): Both have played well, and with the game being held at the Clippers’ home arena, their absence stands out even more.
What’s Next
With the rosters set and the format promising a fresh twist, this year’s All-Star Game is shaping up to be more than just a midseason exhibition. It’s a celebration of the league’s past, present, and future-from LeBron’s historic 22nd appearance to the breakout seasons of first-timers like Murray and Holmgren.
Circle February 15 on your calendar. The stars are aligning in Los Angeles-and the storylines are just getting started.