The Old Man and the Three Let’s Discuss NBA ALL-STAR and TANKING… | The Old Man and the Three
Feb 17, 2026
A lively recap of All-Star weekend, from the new three-team format to dunk contest struggles and ideas for a one-on-one event. Discussion of game length, fan experience, and the best types of host cities. Deep dive into tanking: why teams do it, proposed fixes like a play-in draft tournament, and how culture can flip a franchise.
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Short Games Increased All-Star Competitiveness
- The new multi-team short-quarter All-Star format boosted competitive bursts and game-ending intensity.
- Cam Johnson views it as a positive step that restored effort without needing full regular-season pacing.
LA Didn't Feel Hungry For All-Star
- Tommy Alter observed low attendance early in LA All-Star events and blamed city scale and timing for dead seats.
- He contrasts that with packed shows in smaller or different-city venues like Lucas Oil in Indy.
All-Star Is More Celebration Than Championship
- The primary purpose of All-Star Weekend is entertainment and celebration of the game, not pure stakes.
- Cam Johnson believes the weekend should favor a relaxed celebratory feel while keeping some competitive events.