The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is starting to take shape, and if the fan and media voting is any indication, we’re in for an electric weekend in Los Angeles. The league just unveiled the starters for this year’s showcase, and while the rosters were selected along the traditional Eastern and Western Conference lines, that’s where the old-school format ends.
With the NBA introducing multiple teams this year, the All-Star squads won’t be split strictly by conference once the full lineups are drafted. But for now, let’s break down the headline names who’ll be front and center come February 13-15.
Western Conference Starters
Let’s start out West, where the star power is as bright as ever.
- Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors) At this point, it almost feels automatic.
Curry continues to age like fine wine, and his presence in the starting five is a testament to both his sustained excellence and his enduring popularity. Whether he’s pulling up from 30 feet or orchestrating the Warriors’ offense with surgical precision, Steph remains one of the most electrifying players in the game.
- Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers) Dončić’s move to L.A. hasn’t dimmed his brilliance-it’s only amplified it.
Now wearing the purple and gold, Luka’s blend of size, vision, and scoring touch has made him a nightly triple-double threat. He’s been the engine of the Lakers’ offense and a clear fan favorite.
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder) SGA’s rise from promising young guard to bona fide superstar is now complete.
He’s not just putting up numbers-he’s leading a Thunder team that’s turning heads around the league. His smooth, unhurried style belies just how lethal he is in isolation, and his All-Star nod is well-earned.
- Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) The hype was real-and Wemby has lived up to every bit of it.
As a rookie starter in the All-Star Game, he’s making history, but more importantly, he’s redefining what a 7-footer can do on a basketball court. His shot-blocking, shooting range, and ball-handling are already giving the league fits.
- Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets) The Joker is back in the starting lineup, and rightfully so.
The two-time MVP continues to play the game like a chess master, always a step ahead. Whether it’s a no-look dime or a soft-touch floater in the lane, Jokić makes the extraordinary look routine.
Eastern Conference Starters
Over in the East, a mix of rising stars and established names headline a group that’s as dynamic as it is diverse.
- Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers) Maxey’s leap this season has been one of the best stories in the league.
With more offensive responsibility on his shoulders, he’s responded with poise, speed, and scoring punch. His quick first step and fearless mentality have turned him into a fan favorite in Philly-and now, an All-Star starter.
- Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons) Cunningham’s All-Star selection signals a turning point-not just for him, but for a Pistons franchise searching for a new identity. His blend of size, playmaking, and leadership has been a bright spot in Detroit’s rebuild, and this nod is a major milestone in his young career.
- Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks) Brunson’s been the heartbeat of the Knicks, and his first All-Star start is a testament to the grit and control he brings to the floor every night. He’s not flashy, but he’s surgical-methodically breaking down defenses and hitting big shots when it matters most.
- Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics) Brown continues to be one of the most consistent two-way wings in the league.
His athleticism, defensive versatility, and improved shot-making have made him a cornerstone in Boston’s title chase. He’s earned this spot with his play on both ends of the floor.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks) No surprises here.
Giannis is once again anchoring the East’s frontcourt, and he remains one of the most dominant forces in the league. Whether he’s barreling down the lane or locking down an opposing star, his impact is undeniable.
He brings MVP-level intensity to every possession-and that energy will be on full display in L.A.
Looking Ahead to All-Star Weekend
The NBA All-Star festivities will take over Los Angeles from February 13th to 15th, and while the full rosters are still taking shape, these ten starters give us a strong preview of the star-studded action to come. With a new multi-team format shaking up the traditional East vs. West dynamic, fans can expect fresh matchups, unexpected pairings, and a weekend packed with highlight-reel moments.
And if these starters are any indication, the 2026 All-Star Game won’t just be a celebration of the league’s biggest names-it’ll be a glimpse into the future of the NBA.