Why is LeBron James not playing tonight in 2025 NBA All-Star Game? Latest injury update on 21-time All-Star's absence 

LeBron James dropped a massive injury update on Sunday night as fans anticipated the four-time MVP's suiting up for his 21st consecutive NBA All-Star game. James has decided not to play at the marquee event, citing injuries to his left ankle and foot.

James will instead return to LA and focus on recovery. He said he planned to play but didn't fully recover from his injuries.

"I have to look out for myself when it comes to this injury that I've been dealing with for years. I am headed back to LA tonight. There will be no vacation for me"

With 30 games left, LeBron James' focus is entirely on keeping the Lakers' top six hopes alive. The team is fifth right now with a 32-20 record in 52 games. The Western Conference is stacked, and a rough stretch could drag LA down into the play-in bracket for the third consecutive year.

LeBron James and the Lakers saw Luka Doncic join their roster in a midseason trade before the deadline. Anthony Davis was the major moving piece in that three-team trade. James and Doncic have had their injury problems, so it's understandable why the former opted out and decided to preserve his health.

Doncic is already out of the All-Star game. His Christmas Day injury and the 20+ games he missed caused him to fall out of favor with voters.

LeBron James raises concerns about playing against Charlotte Hornets

The LA Lakers will play a "make-up" game against the Charlotte Hornets in their first game after the 2025 NBA All-Star break on Wednesday at home. LeBron James is iffy about playing that game. The 21-time NBA All-Star said on Friday that he hopes he's ready for that contest.

The NBA postponed that clash as it was originally scheduled on Jan. 9 when LA was dealing with the wildfires. The Lakers had two games postponed at the time, including one against the San Antonio Spurs.