From Steph Curry to Giannis: The biggest absences from the 2026 NBA All-Star Game

The NBA All-Star Game is supposed to be a celebration of the sport at its peak. But the 2026 edition arrives with a very different storyline. A string of high-profile injuries has dramatically altered the landscape, sidelining some of the most dominant players of the season just as the spotlight turns brightest.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ruled out after MVP season

The list of absences reads like an All-NBA ballot.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP and one of the league’s most unstoppable forces this season, will not participate because of an abdominal injury. His absence is both competitive and symbolic. As the face of this year’s campaign, he was expected to be one of the defining attractions of the weekend.

Without him, the West loses not only production, but also one of the smoothest, most efficient scorers in the game.

Steph Curry opts for caution

Steph Curry will also sit out. The Golden State Warriors guard has been dealing with soreness in his right knee and has chosen to prioritize recovery over exhibition play.

That decision is understandable, especially with the playoff race looming. Still, his absence dims the spectacle. Every Curry All-Star appearance carries the promise of logo-range 3-pointers, heat-check sequences and viral moments that dominate social media for days. Without him, the entertainment factor takes a noticeable hit.

Giannis’ absence shifts the balance in the East

In the Eastern Conference, the impact is just as significant.

Giannis Antetokounmpo has been ruled out with a calf injury. The Milwaukee Bucks star embodies power, charisma and relentless competitiveness. His presence alone can tilt the balance of an All-Star matchup, even in a game built more on flair than defense.

Take him out of the equation, and the East loses one of its pillars. The anticipated clash between conferences no longer carries the same star power.

Cooper Flagg’s moment put on hold

The injury list extends beyond established icons.

Cooper Flagg, the No. 1 overall pick in the draft and one of the league’s most hyped young prospects, will miss the event with a foot injury. His inclusion had generated enormous buzz. Fans were eager to see the rookie share the floor with the game’s elite and offer a glimpse of what the next decade might look like.

That introduction to the All-Star stage will have to wait.

All-Star 2026 will still feature its revamped format and Hollywood setting in Los Angeles. But the focus has clearly shifted. Instead of debating the new competition structure or dunk contest participants, the conversation centers on who will not be there.

The NBA now turns to its next wave of stars to carry the weekend. Meanwhile, some of the league’s brightest names will be watching from afar as an All-Star celebration unfolds without its full constellation.

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