Western Conference depth puts LeBron James’ 21-year All-Star streak at risk, while Tyrese Maxey secures his first starting nod and Phoenix anticipates Jalen Green’s long-awaited return.
Lakers
For the first time since 2005, LeBron James is not among the NBA All-Star starters. The Los Angeles forward, now a 21-time All-Star, opened the season sidelined by sciatica, missing training camp and the first 14 games. He has already sat out 17 of the Lakers’ initial 41 contests in a crowded Western Conference loaded with younger, consistently available talent.
James is still producing familiar numbers—22.6 points, 6.9 assists and 5.9 rebounds per game on just above 50 percent shooting—but coaches will decide whether he extends his record streak as a reserve. The very debate underscores the unforgiving nature of the conference.
76ers
Philadelphia guard Tyrese Maxey continues his ascent, earning his first All-Star start amid a career season. The fourth-year guard is averaging 30.3 points, 6.7 assists, 4.4 rebounds and nearly two steals while leading the league in minutes played.
Speaking Monday, Maxey said representing the United States is next on his wish list. “I would love to play for Team USA,” he told PHLY Sixers, adding that he would accept the invitation if offered. His surge has coincided with the 76ers’ resurgence, positioning him as a central figure in the franchise’s future.
Suns
Help is on the way for Phoenix. Guard Jalen Green is expected to return to the lineup Tuesday in Philadelphia after a lengthy absence caused by a right hamstring strain. Suns coach Jordan Ott said Monday’s extra day of rest was purely precautionary, emphasizing there were “no setbacks.”
Green has appeared in only two games this season, injuring the hamstring in training camp and aggravating it during his November debut. He scored 29 points in 23 minutes in that first outing, then lasted seven minutes in his second game before exiting. Ott confirmed Green will immediately reclaim a starting role, giving the Suns an additional scoring option for the season’s second half.
Source: Hoops Wire
