Dwayne Wade Issues Request To Los Angeles Lakers Star LeBron James

The 68th edition of the NBA All-Star Game is taking place on February 18 in Charlotte when team LeBron James will take on team Giannis Antetokounmpo. The teams will include players voted for by fans, players and media.

Contrary to the usual format, in which the Eastern Conference were pitted against the Western Conference, the teams are now mixed and team captains are selecting their rosters.

There will be another surprise this year though, as NBA commissioner Adam Silver announced – a special category called ‘Special Roster Additions’ including the ageing Dirk Nowitzki and retiring Dwayne Wade.

LeBron James will be the first to choose and, given his close friendship and playing years with Wade, the 37-year-old is expected to be his pick.

Speaking about his inclusion in the exhibition match, Wade said: “At this point, you guys know, I didn’t want to…

“I appreciate my fans for voting for me, but to be put in a position where you take a roster position from someone who could get their first, or second or third opportunity to play in an All-Star game.

“I’ve had 12 chances of that, but for the commissioner to create that opportunity for Dirk [Nowitzki] and myself – that’s cool.

“And I think I appreciate it more getting in this way. So I’ll be there, enjoy it, take it all in.

“And I’m glad I can share this opportunity with Dirk, one of the games greatest players, someone that I’ve had battles against.”

Regarding James’ pick from the ‘Special Roster Additions’, Wade cheekily retorted: “He better pick me, I’m not even gonna play around.