NBA News: 76ers’ Paul George joins Davis, Durant, Booker, Wembanyama and other NBA stars in criticizing new All-Star format

Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Victor Wembanyamaand Anthony Davis are among the tent names that express their dissatisfaction with NBA‘s new All-Star Game format. The changes, which have sparked a wide debate, have left many players longing for the simplicity and competitive spirit of the traditional format. Joining the chorus of discontent is Philadelphia 76ers star Paul Georgewho did not shy away from sharing his views.

Speaking on a recent episode of Podcast P, presented by Wave Sports + Entertainment, George questioned the logic behind the revamped structure.

“We already had a hard time with one game; how are we going to have three All-Star games?” George said. “We had a hard enough time trying to get everyone to compete at a high level in a game. So I just don’t understand how; I guess it’s a shorter number to play for, so I guess it is the competitive part of it. It’s competing to get to, I think, 40 or something.”

George continued, emphasizing his displeasure: “But yeah, I just don’t like the format. If we’re not going to go out and compete and be competitive, I think it’s still just a waste of time.”

Anthony Davis (23) shoots during the NBA Basketball Herren USA All-Star Game

Details of the new format

Under the new format, the NBA will announce 24 All-Starswhich is then divided into three teams with eight players. A fourth team will consist of players from the winner of the Rising Star Challenge, which features rookies and second-year players. Adding to the news, TNT commentators Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal will make up the three main teams.

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While the league hopes this revamped structure will add excitement to the event, critics argue that it sacrifices the essence of the All-Star Game.

Nostalgia for the classic format

The changes have picked up again nostalgia for the traditional format in which two teams, typically led by the leading vote-getters, competed in a single, high-stakes game. This straightforward structure produced unforgettable moments, from Michael Jordan’s iconic battles with Magic Johnson to the more recent showdown between LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The introduction of a more complex system has left fans feeling disconnected, with many calling for a return to basics: one competitive game with the league’s brightest stars playing at their peak.

For both players and fansthe The NBA All-Star Game has always been more than just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of basketball’s finest talent. The growing chorus of criticism reflects a collective desire to preserve the essence of the event and restore prestige it made it an annual tradition loved by millions.