LeBron James has already expressed his displeasure with the NBA scheduling an All-Star game in Atlanta in March. Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum expressed his thoughts in a much less aggressive fashion than The King did. He pretty much shared the same sentiments, but understands why the NBA is pushing for the festivities, in what will likely be his second All-Star appearance.
Via Jared Weiss of The Athletic:
Jayson Tatum on the NBA holding an All-Star game in Atlanta, where he's likely to play: "I feel like for the most part they have done a great job of trying to keep us safe, though you can't control everything. But I do understand the concerns about it, especially in Atlanta."
— Jared Weiss (@JaredWeissNBA) February 6, 2021
James was among the first to vehemently disagree with the NBA's decision to hold an All-Star game. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar claimed he had “zero energy and zero excitement” for what will be the 17th All-Star appearance of his Hall of Fame career.
Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo also shared the same sentiments as James and admitted that he would rather spend the break with his family. Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox was one of the first, explicitly claiming that holding the All-Star game “is stupid,” especially with the league and the rest of the world still dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The NBA has assured that they will do everything they can to keep everyone safe when 24 of the best players in the league play the annual exhibition. But speculations on the viability of the All-Star game arose, especially after the Kevin Durant conundrum that occurred in Brooklyn on Friday night.
Obviously, the NBA is a business and this huge money-making event will help cover the losses due to the coronavirus pandemic.
As for Tatum, despite missing time due to contracting COVID-19 himself, he is playing like a sure-fire All-Star in his 4th NBA campaign. On the season, the two-way wing is turning in averages of 27.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists.
Follow Us
Subscribe