The NBA All-Star game takes place on Sunday night, however, there have been two players in the league who have been ruled out due to contact tracing. Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons will not be participating in the All-Star game, raising concerns about safety protocols, and questioning whether or not the All-Star game should even take place this year, with LeBron James chiming in.

James shared his take on the recent news of Embiid and Simmon, mentioning, “it's very unfortunate – it's all something that we thought could possibly happen,” per Marc J. Spears. With the NBA's prolific response to the COVID-19 outbreak last year by opening up the NBA Bubble, it's coming off as though Adam Silver was a bit quick on making the call to have the All-Star break this season.

Furthermore, the pandemic has to be left to scientists and doctors, as they're the real experts on dealing with this catastrophe. However, athletes and everyday people alike should be taking the proper steps necessary as well. At the end of the day, we're all human, and mistakes happen. Nobody is perfect, which is essentially what LeBron James means by referencing himself as “a ghostbuster,” per Tim Reynolds.

RECOMMENDED (Article Continues Below)
The LeBron vs. MJ debate has taken an interesting turn.

Nick Meyer ·

Austin Reaves and the Lakers go on Russell's strengths.

Nick Meyer ·

Lakers forward LeBron James (23) handles the ball against Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30)

Jedd Pagaduan ·

With vaccines slowly being distributed throughout the world, hopefully, soon COVID-19 protocols can be lifted. However, we're not there yet, so continuing to work together is the only right answer. The NBA All-Star game won't be the same without Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons, but for their safety, and others, it's in the best interest they sit out this game.

The NBA All-Star game takes place Sunday with the festivities beginning at 6:30 pm eastern.