The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is shaking things up—big time. Forget everything you thought you knew about this midseason spectacle. Instead of the traditional East vs. West format, the league has confirmed a round-robin tournament featuring two U.S. teams and one international squad. But here’s where it gets controversial: the starters are still being chosen by fans, players, and media, but positions? They’re out the window. No more guards, forwards, or centers—just the best of the best, regardless of role. And this is the part most people miss: how does this new format impact player selection? Is it fair to judge players without considering their traditional roles? Let’s dive into the picks from three of The Athletic’s NBA writers who had a vote—and trust us, their choices will spark some debates.
Ballot No. 1: Josh Robbins
East Starters: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), Jaylen Brown (Celtics), Jalen Brunson (Knicks), Cade Cunningham (Pistons), Tyrese Maxey (76ers)
West Starters: Luka Dončić (Lakers), Anthony Edwards (Timberwolves), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Thunder), Nikola Jokić (Nuggets), Victor Wembanyama (Spurs)
Robbins prioritizes players who drive winning, especially those making a two-way impact. Cunningham’s MVP-level play for the East’s top team was a no-brainer, while Brown’s all-around dominance and Brunson’s leadership in the Knicks’ NBA Cup run sealed their spots. Maxey’s consistency and Antetokounmpo’s two-way prowess rounded out the East. In the West, Dončić, Edwards, Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokić, and Wembanyama were obvious picks, with Robbins overlooking missed games for Jokić and Wembanyama due to their undeniable dominance.
Controversial Take: Robbins left out LeBron James, citing a focus on current season performance over career achievements. Do you agree, or does LeBron’s legacy deserve one last All-Star nod?
Ballot No. 2: William Guillory
East Starters: Antetokounmpo, Brown, Brunson, Cunningham, Maxey
West Starters: Dončić, Edwards, Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokić, Wembanyama
Guillory’s East picks were a quick decision, with Cunningham, Brown, and Maxey standing out for their elevated play. Brunson’s steadiness and Antetokounmpo’s sheer dominance completed the lineup. In the West, Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokić, and Dončić were locks, while Wembanyama’s limited minutes didn’t deter Guillory from selecting him. The final spot came down to Edwards and Kevin Durant, with Edwards edging out due to Houston’s inconsistent play.
Controversial Take: Guillory penalized Donovan Mitchell for Cleveland’s underperformance. Should team success factor into All-Star selections, or should individual brilliance stand alone?
Ballot No. 3: Zach Harper
East Starters: Antetokounmpo, Brown, Brunson, Cunningham, Maxey
West Starters: Dončić, Edwards, Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokić, Wembanyama
Harper’s East picks mirrored his colleagues, with Antetokounmpo’s dominance and Cunningham’s Pistons leading the charge. Maxey and Brown’s stellar seasons were undeniable, while Brunson’s fit in Mike Brown’s system elevated his game. In the West, Jokić and Gilgeous-Alexander were automatic picks, with Dončić’s offensive prowess outweighing defensive concerns. Wembanyama’s limited play didn’t disqualify him, while Edwards beat out Devin Booker and Kawhi Leonard for the final spot.
Controversial Take: Harper questioned whether defense should even matter in an All-Star Game. Is this event about showcasing the best all-around players, or is it purely an offensive showcase?
Final Thoughts: The 2026 NBA All-Star Game promises to be unlike any other, but the debate over player selection is as heated as ever. Do you agree with these picks? Should positions still matter? And how much weight should team success carry? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
