Not even The King could be spared from foot and ankle discomfort.

LeBron James, who was selected to Shaquille O'Neal's squad, "Shaq's OGs," for the NBA's new mini-tournament format, was forced to sit out. Since his first All-Star appearance in 2005, James has been a regular in the league's midseason event, breaking records for most selections (21) and most consecutive starts (20).

His absence is a defining point in NBA history, as viewers will lose one of the sport's strongest personalities on center stage. How did his fans react to his surprising absence from NBA All-Star 2025?

No Break, All Rehab for King James

LeBron James Skips 2025 NBA All-Star Game, Cites Foot and LeBron James Skips 2025 NBA All-Star Game, Cites Foot and
Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

James made it clear that even after missing the All-Star Game, he has no intention of resting. Rather than relaxing, he flew back home to Los Angeles on Sunday night to continue the rehabilitation process.

"No vacation for me," James said, pointing out that his priority is to return to full strength for the second half of the season.

James came up with the decision to skip the mini-tournament 90 minutes before it kicked off. Well, for some reason, he's been battling with foot and ankle discomfort and these issues have been with him frequently.

Aiming for a Return Against Charlotte

James is optimistic to resume action on Wednesday when the Lakers host the Charlotte Hornets in a rescheduled contest. The contest, which was initially delayed due to the California wildfires, will be a determining test for James as he seeks to contribute to the Lakers' playoff aspirations.

"I hope to be available on Wednesday," James said, indicating his eagerness to get back to action as quickly as possible.

With LeBron James' health now in doubt, the Lakers need to proceed cautiously as they move into a make-or-break period of the season. Maybe the LA Town needs to evaluate his minutes. They could plan to redistribute it for the rest of the players and see who's going to earn it.

How NBA Fans React to LeBron Skipping 2025 All-Star Game

For long-time LBJ fans, not seeing The King in an All-Star weekend game was something unexpected. Although LeBron is already 40 years old at the moment, he still can't be belittled since he can still "ball" like any gunners in the league.

Some fans that Sports Illustrated spotted have different reactions to James' big announcement ahead of the All-Star game. Most of them are upset.

"Y u wait so late someone else could have played smh," one fan said on X.

"Waiting till an hour before it starts is classic LeBron. Buddy loves the attention," another fan wrote on the same platform.

"MJ and Kobe would NEVER," another spoke, saying that both of these legends haven't missed a single All-Star game in their lives.

"TOP 3 WORST MOMENTS IN US HISTORY," one fan commented.

One fan even questioned why he always got an excuse, saying that his All-Star slot should have gone to a more deserving player.

"Why are you an all star then? Should have gave it to someone that can actually play. Man always got an excuse."