Overview
- NBA commissioner Adam Silver has pledged to improve the intensity of the All-Star Game, following criticisms of the lack of real effort especially on the defensive end and a drop in game ratings by 29% from 2022 to 2023.
- Silver's statements follow discussions with 13-time All-Star Chris Paul, who highlighted that the disruptions caused by pre-game and halftime shows interfere with players' normal game-day routines.
- To address these issues, Silver plans to reduce the length of the introductions and halftime shows, starting with the 2024 NBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis, in an effort to recreate a typical game environment.
- The 2024 NBA All-Star Game will also mark a return to the traditional Eastern Conference vs. Western Conference format, moving away from the selection process that took place during the last six NBA All-Star Games.
- Despite these measures, Silver acknowledges that these changes will not necessarily result in players playing 'lockdown defense', opting for a fun, yet competitive game.