Golden State Warriors veteran Draymond Green isn’t hiding his concern over the latest NBA All-Star voting results, especially when it comes to one name that has defined the league for two decades: LeBron James. With fan voting numbers placing the Los Angeles Lakers star outside the current group of Western Conference starters, Green believes the league must step in to ensure one of its most iconic figures remains center stage.
Speaking on a recent episode of The Draymond Green Show, the Warriors leader questioned whether the current voting system could realistically leave LeBron off the All-Star starting lineup-and whether that outcome would make sense for the league.
“If he misses 50% of the fan vote, that would make it tough for him to be a starter. Then you ask yourself, does he get voted in by the coaches as a reserve? And I don’t know. He’s only played 14 games. 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”
The voters seem to not want LeBron at the All-Star Game
The NBA’s first All-Star voting update showed James sitting ninth among Western Conference players, a rare sight for someone who has dominated the ballot for most of his career. Injuries and limited appearances have clearly played a role, but Green argues that context matters-especially when the league’s marquee event is being held in Los Angeles.
Green pointed to precedent as he urged Adam Silver to find a solution.
“I played in an All-Star Game where the commish added Dirk and D-Wade as legends of the game in their last one. It’s the same with LeBron. The games are in LA. He’s one of the faces of the NBA. He’s been the face of the NBA for 20 years. Yeah, figure it out”
Why LeBron’s All-Star presence still matters
James currently holds the NBA record with 21 All-Star selections, a testament to both his longevity and sustained excellence. Even in a season where injuries have limited his availability, the Lakers superstar remains one of the league’s most marketable and influential players.
While coaches are still expected to select him as a reserve if fan voting falls short, that scenario would mark only the second time in his career that LeBron does not start the NBA All-Star Game. For a player who has defined multiple eras of basketball, that possibility feels almost unthinkable to many around the league.
From a business and branding standpoint, Green’s argument resonates. The NBA All-Star Weekend thrives on star power, and few names carry the global weight of LeBron James-especially in his home arena with the Los Angeles Lakers. Even rival players like Green, who anchors the Golden State Warriors, understand what LeBron’s presence means for fans, ratings, and the league’s image.
Whether through fan voting, coach selections, or a commissioner’s decision, Green believes the outcome should be clear. LeBron James belongs on the All-Star stage-and the NBA, in his view, should make sure of it.
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