The NBA has long struggled to revive its once-popular All-Star Game through various format changes. However, ESPN’s Michael Wilbon believes the league should take a page from the NHL’s playbook and replace the NBA All-Star Game with an event that showcases international talent. This past Wednesday, the NHL launched its 4 Nations Face-off, a new eight-day series aiming to replace the traditional All-Star Weekend. This tournament features four teams—Team USA, Team Canada, Team Sweden, and Team Finland—each comprising 23 players.
Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly after an exhilarating overtime game between Team Canada and Team Sweden that has gained rave reviews.
MITCH MARNER!!! 🚨
He wins it for Canada in just an amazing overtime! 🍁 #4Nations pic.twitter.com/lcXpPbkoBw
— NHL (@NHL) February 13, 2025
As the anticipation builds around the ratings for the 4 Nations Face-off, Michael Wilbon pondered whether the NBA could adopt a similar format to enhance its All-Star Weekend. On a recent episode of Pardon the Interruption, while discussing this possibility with ESPN NHL analyst P.K. Subban, Wilbon expressed that the NBA should “follow suit very quickly.”
“Short tournament, but a popular tournament already, P.K.,” Wilbon remarked. “Why do the players love it so much?” Subban responded by highlighting the effectiveness of the new format and the players’ commitment. “Hats off to the NHL and what they have done,” Subban stated. “The players should be excited about it. The intensity was clear; there was hitting and physicality on display. Shea Theodore’s absence was not due to an accident—this competition is serious.”
Subban emphasized that the NHL’s culture cascades from Gary Bettman to the teams, instilling a sense of pride when donning a jersey, whether it’s a classic NHL team or a national representation. He asserted that players must give it their all during such prestigious events. “When you put that country’s jersey on, buckle up. Showtime, primetime, on-time—it doesn’t matter. Guys are leaving it all out on the ice, showing pride for their families and the hard work that got them there.”
There have already been calls from media figures suggesting that the NBA should shift to a Team USA versus Team World format, and Adam Silver has acknowledged that such a change could happen in the future. However, as Subban pointed out, any new format the NBA considers will only succeed if the players truly engage and put forth more effort than has been evident in recent All-Star Games—something that has been a recurring topic for years.
As we approach the 2025 All-Star Game, which will feature yet another new format, it remains to be seen whether this will sway Wilbon’s perspective on the future direction of NBA All-Star Weekend.
