Draymond Green has never been one to hold back his opinions, and during this year’s NBA All-Star Weekend, he made it clear that he strongly disagrees with the inclusion of the Rising Stars team in the Sunday festivities.
Speaking to Marc Spears, Green expressed his frustration with the new setup, stating:
“These young guys, if they’re on the Rising Stars team, they don’t deserve the privilege of playing on Sunday.”
The four-time All-Star was not against the overall format of the tournament but felt that having the Rising Stars team compete in the All-Star Game undermines the prestige of the event.
The new All-Star format, which features a four-team tournament with three All-Star squads and the winner of the Rising Stars Challenge, has stirred debate. While fans have been intrigued by the change, Green believes the young players have not yet earned the right to share the court with established superstars.
Green’s stance was reportedly echoed by another former All-Star, who wished to remain anonymous. According to Spears, this player also believed that the situation was a “lose-lose” for the veterans.
“What does the All-Star team that plays against the Rising Stars have to gain? We’re supposed to beat them. If we lose, we look bad.”
The frustration from players like Green highlights the ongoing struggle the NBA faces in maintaining the competitiveness of the All-Star Game. In recent years, the game has been criticized for its lack of defense and intensity, with many players treating it as little more than a high-scoring exhibition.
Adam Silver’s decision to include the Rising Stars team was meant to inject fresh energy and competitive fire into the event, but it appears to have drawn backlash from veterans who feel the game should remain an exclusive showcase for the league’s best players.
Despite Green’s concerns, the new format has generated plenty of buzz, especially with the Rising Stars set to face off against Shaquille O’Neal’s team of “OGs” in the semifinals. The OG squad, which features legends like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, will be looking to make a statement against a group of up-and-coming talents eager to prove themselves.
This game has already become one of the most anticipated matchups of the night. For the veterans, losing to a group of young players who idolized them growing up would be humiliating. But for the Rising Stars, this is an opportunity to showcase their skills on the biggest stage. If they manage to pull off an upset, it would be a massive moment for the next generation of NBA stars.
Ultimately, whether Green likes it or not, the format is here for now. The NBA is actively trying to revive the competitive spirit of All-Star Weekend, and integrating young, hungry players into the mix could be the shake-up the event needs.
While veterans may see it as a slight to their status, fans appear to be excited about the unpredictability this format brings. No matter which side of the debate one falls on, one thing is certain—this year’s All-Star Game will be must-watch basketball.
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