The NBA is contemplating a shift to a tournament-style format for its All-Star Game, taking cues from the recent modifications seen in the Rising Stars competition. This proposition was discussed by several insiders familiar with the plans, who opted to remain unnamed since the details have yet to be officially confirmed.

The concept involves dividing the 24 All-Star picks into three teams, each comprising eight players. Additionally, a fourth team would potentially be formed from the winner of the Rising Stars game that occurs earlier during the All-Star weekend festivities.

If this new structure is implemented, it would debut during the upcoming All-Star weekend in February, set to take place in San Francisco. However, specific changes regarding the voting procedures remain uncertain. Traditionally, a combination of fans, players, and media contribute to a weighted voting system for selecting the starters, while coaches are responsible for nominating the reserves. With the proposed format discontinuing the reserve selection, all four voting groups would likely have a direct role in curating the entire 24-player roster.

Another point that requires clarification is how coaching responsibilities would be managed in this altered format. Typically, the teams with the best records in the Eastern and Western Conferences provide the coaching staff for the All-Star Game. With the addition of three or four teams, it suggests that more coaches may be necessary.

The potential for these changes was first reported by ESPN, and they align with the sentiments expressed by Commissioner Adam Silver, who stated earlier this month that the league aims to enhance the competitiveness of the All-Star Game through this new format.