“I respect LeBron James for his professionalism”: Adam Silver breaks silence about Lakers star’s criticism of the 2021 NBA All-Star Game

Adam Silver takes the high road and acknowledges that LeBron James having a different line of thinking is ‘being part of family’.

Before the voting proceeds of the All-Star Game were finalized, the news of the game being confirmed was not taken well. Players across the league spoke out in criticism of the festivities, saying they’d much prefer the rest days.

Among those who were vocally and highly critical of the NBA policy to play were LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard. All 3 of them had expressed concerns for player safety as well.

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As one of the best commissioners in sports, Adam Silver would never have silenced his players for speaking out about a commitment. He played the role of a Devil’s Advocate about the statements made by LeBron and other NBA superstars.

Adam Silver finally responds to LeBron James about the All-Star break

Silver made the following statements in response to LeBron saying he’s got ‘0% excitement’ for this year’s All-Star game:

“It would be incredibly hypocritical of me to tell LeBron you should speak out on issues that are important to you, but not ones when you are critical of the league. We’re all part of a community. I respect him and his point of view. But at the same time, I also appreciate his professionalism.”

“He did it (the All-Star Draft) in good humor and took it very seriously. My sense is he’s going to be here as he always is as a top-notch professional and engaged in the game. So I respect his point of view, but it can be issues that can be worked out within the family, so to speak.”

“I haven’t made a secret that economic interests aren’t a factor. When I say economic interests are a factor, it has less to do with the economics of one Sunday night on TNT in the United States.”

Adam Silver on LeBron James saying the All-Star game proceeding was “a slap in the face.” Silver said “I respect his point of view, but it can be issues that can be worked out in the family.”

— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) March 6, 2021

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“It has more to do with the larger brand value of the NBA and the fact that this is our No. 1 fan engagement event of the year.”