NBA All-Star Game Criticized for Long Stoppages

The NBA All-Star Game in San Francisco faced criticism for its lack of basketball action, with long mid-game stoppages leading to disengagement among players like Nikola Jokic and Steph Curry. The event underscored the growing influence of international players such as Jokic and Alperen Sengun, with Jokic's leadership and mentorship highlighted. Jokic's All-Star experience was also affected by the absence of close friend Luka Doncic, who was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. NBA veteran Marques Johnson commented that Jokic's skill set, celebrated in today's game, might not have been valued in earlier decades, reflecting changing perceptions of European players. Despite the All-Star Game's issues, Jokic continues to be a pivotal figure in the NBA, embodying the shift towards international talent.