NBA All-Star Weekend 2026: Edwards Shines, Lillard Reigns & Future of the Draft

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The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend was marked by a renewed sense of intensity, with Anthony Edwards' MVP performance and Damian Lillard's three-point contest victory. The league also addressed growing concerns around tanking, exploring options like reducing lottery odds and potentially abolishing the draft altogether.

Why it matters

The success of the revamped All-Star Game format, which pitted the USA against the Rest of the World, suggests the league may have found a way to prioritize genuine competition over spectacle. Additionally, the league's efforts to address tanking could have significant implications for the future of the draft and the competitive balance of the NBA.

The details

The intensity of the All-Star Game was palpable, with players like Victor Wembanyama visibly frustrated by mistakes. Anthony Edwards admitted that Wembanyama's presence motivated him to perform at a high level, fearing being overshadowed. This competitive spirit extended throughout the teams, a stark contrast to recent years. In the three-point contest, Damian Lillard solidified his status as the king of the event, securing his third crown. The league is also exploring potential solutions to address tanking, including reducing lottery odds and even considering abolishing the draft altogether, allowing prospects to choose their teams.

• The 2026 NBA All-Star Game was played on February 16, 2026.
• Damian Lillard won his third three-point contest title on February 15, 2026.

What’s next

The NBA is expected to continue discussions around potential changes to the draft process, including reducing lottery odds and the possibility of abolishing the draft altogether.