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LeBron James Catching Heat for His Last Minute Opt-Out of All-Star Game

Karl Rasmussen

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James warms up before a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James warms up before a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center. / Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images
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LeBron James will not be playing in the 2025 All-Star Game, a decision he waited until just about the last minute to announce. James is dealing with discomfort in his ankle and foot, and as such, he won't be taking the floor for Team Shaq.

His decision to opt-out just hours before the All-Star tournament is set to get underway didn't sit well with some fans and media members, including TNT's analyst panel of Jalen Rose, Vince Carter and Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green.

"I just know he's been dealing with that (injury). He took a couple days off last week... It's kind of expected," said Green. "I think Bron could have helped somebody else out and said this earlier."

"He took a roster spot from somebody," added Rose after Carter acknowledged there were some worthy players who missed out on an All-Star spot because James had been expected to play.

James would have made his 21st consecutive start at the All-Star Game if he were to suit up on Sunday evening. But with some injuries impacting him of late, he opted to forgo playing in the game. The timing of his opt-out made it so the league didn't have enough time to find a replacement, leaving Shaquille O'Neal's team with only seven players.

More on the 2025 NBA All-Star Game

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Karl Rasmussen
KARL RASMUSSEN

Karl Rasmussen is a staff writer for the Breaking and Trending News team for Sports Illustrated. A University of Oregon alum who joined SI in February 2023, his work has appeared on 12up and ClutchPoints. Rasmussen is a loyal Tottenham, Jets, Yankees and Ducks fan.

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