Kevin Durant slammed the new NBA All-Star format, stating, “Absolutely hate it.” This sentiment echoes a growing concern among players and fans regarding the league’s shift to a four-team tournament featuring three eight-player All-Star teams and one Rising Stars team, set to take place in San Francisco in 2024.
The NBA’s decision to revamp the All-Star Game format aims to inject competitiveness and excitement back into the event. The previous year’s game saw a staggering 397 points scored, resulting in a 211-186 outcome that many deemed unbalanced and lacking in intensity.
Despite the potential for change, opinions remain divided as the February 16 game approaches. Durant’s critique highlights a significant voice of dissent among players. “We should just go back to East vs. West and just play a game,” he remarked, advocating for a return to traditional matchups that fans have cherished for years.
He continued, “I think we’ve been trying to bring that flair back with All-Star Weekend, but I think we should just keep it traditional. We’ll see how this one works. You never know, I might be wrong. I’m just another guy with another opinion.” This perspective suggests that while innovation is important, sometimes sticking with what works is equally valid.
[2024 NBA All-Star tournament: Everything you need to know about the new, 3-team format]
Durant’s impressive track record includes 14 All-Star selections since 2010, and with current averages of 25.7 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, he is expected to be among the All-Stars once again this season.
While Durant’s initial reaction may reflect broader skepticism among players, history shows that opinions can evolve over time, as seen with LeBron James and the Play-In Tournament. As the conversation around the new format continues, more players are likely to share their thoughts, shaping the narrative leading up to the All-Star Weekend.
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