Rich Paul makes surprising comments about LeBron James' All-Star case

Sam Stroup

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Rich Paul makes surprising comments about LeBron James' All-Star case image

Klutch Sports Group CEO Rich Paul recently made surprising comments about LeBron James' All-Star case.

Paul, who is James' agent and lifelong friend, appeared on The Ringer's "Game Over" podcast with cohost Max Kellerman. He said he did not want to make a "charity case" for James.

"I don't want a charity case for him," Paul said. "If his numbers aren't good enough, then let him go on vacation and charge up for the rest of the season."

James has made a record 21 straight All-Star Games, dating back to the 2005 season. He was named an All-Star last season but did not play in the game due to injury. 

Paul later said James could make the team due to the game being held in Los Angeles.

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"But if his numbers (are) good enough, the All-Star Game is in LA," he said "The All-Star Game has as many legacy guys as you can have at All-Star Weekend. It's the biggest weekend for our league."

Kellerman agreed with Paul, stating it would help the league if James were named an All-Star.

"It's good if LeBron James is in the All-Star Game," Kellerman said. "He's still playing at a high level."

James has played in 21 of the Lakers' 38 games this season, averaging 22.4 points, 5.7 rebounds and 6.9 assists. He is shooting 51.3% from the field and 31.1% from three.

The 2026 All-Star Game will be held on Feb. 15 at the Intuit Dome. The game will feature a new round-robin format this year, including two USA teams and one international team. Five starters and seven reserves will be selected from each conference.

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