The NBA All-Star Game on Sunday featured the greatest stars in the sport showing off their skillsets. However, it was an early night for both All-Star Game captains LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Antetokounmpo scored on the first play of the game, but quickly issued an intentional foul shortly after, subbing himself out for the remainder of the game.
This appeared to be planned as the two-time MVP came into the game with a sprained wrist.
However, LeBron’s early departure is perhaps more concerning for Los Angeles Lakers fans. James played 14 minutes in the first half, but it was revealed that he would not return in the second half after injuring his hand on a block attempt.
This is obviously the worst-case scenario for Lakers fans hoping to bounce back in the second half of the season. Many took to social media to offer their best wishes for LeBron.
Really hope LeBron is not be seriously injured. Lakers have 23 games to go and I'm going to lose it if he isn't 100 because of the All-Star Game.
— Gabe Ramirez (@GabeRamirez) February 20, 2023
Others simply feel that this All-Star game is lacking due to massive stars either being ruled out before the game like Kevin Durant and Steph Curry or during the game like Lebron and Giannis.
LeBron, Giannis, Steph, and KD all injured for the All-Star game STINKS
— Cameron Tabatabaie (@CTabatabaie) February 20, 2023
James’ early exit may also just be precautionary, especially since he seemed to be in good spirits during a half-time honor for breaking the scoring record earlier this year.
Regardless, it is never fun for fans to not have the biggest stars shining the brightest during the All-Star game, and the absence of Giannis and LeBron appears to be a big one for many fans.
About Reice Shipley
Reice Shipley is a staff writer for Comeback Media that graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in Sports Media. He previously worked at Barrett Sports Media and is a fan of all things Syracuse sports.