Kawhi Leonard Got MVP Votes Even Though He Wasn't Picked to Start

Kawhi Leonard, who was not picked to start the NBA All-Star Game, still received four votes for the MVP award. Anthony Edwards was named the MVP for the game. This shows some people thought Kawhi played very well.
By Newsroom | Basketball, NBA |

A noteworthy turn of events transpired during the recent NBA All-Star Game, where Kawhi Leonard, despite not being an initial selection, garnered four votes for the Most Valuable Player award. This occurred as Anthony Edwards was recognized as MVP, leading his team to a tournament victory in what was described as an entertaining contest. The situation raises questions about player recognition and the mechanics of All-Star selections and awards.

Context

The 2026 NBA All-Star Game featured a new format, pitting USA against the World. Initially, Kawhi Leonard was not among the selected players, leading to discussions about him being a "snub." However, Leonard was later added to the rosters. Anthony Edwards was ultimately named MVP for his performance in leading his team to victory in the tournament-style All-Star event. This event showcased a shift in the All-Star format, with the league and players' association attempting to generate renewed interest in the game.

Evidence of Votes

While Anthony Edwards was formally awarded the MVP title, the presence of four votes for Kawhi Leonard suggests a level of recognition for his performance, even without his inclusion in the initial roster. The specifics of how these votes were cast or by whom are not detailed in the provided information.

Player Performance and Recognition

Kawhi Leonard has been performing at a high level throughout the season, with statistics that have led some to label his initial omission from the All-Star Game as a "snub."

Read More: NBA All-Star Weekend 2026 More Fun and Competitive

Kawhi Leonard received four votes for All-Star Game MVP despite loss - 1

  • Reports indicate Leonard is averaging 27.7 points per game, a career-high, along with 6.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 2.1 steals.

  • His shooting percentages are noted as 49.6 percent from the field, 39.5 percent from three-point range, and 93.6 percent from the free-throw line.

  • His steal percentage and free-throw shooting percentage reportedly lead the entire NBA.

  • These statistics led to him being considered one of the biggest "snubs" for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game.

All-Star Selection Process

The NBA All-Star selection process can be complex, involving fan, player, and media voting for starters, and then selections by coaches for reserves. This year's event also saw a format change, with the league and the National Basketball Players Association unveiling a new plan.

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Game adopted a USA vs. World format.

  • Roster sizes were adjusted to ensure at least eight players per team.

  • Kawhi Leonard was eventually added to the rosters after initially being overlooked.

Contrasting All-Star Narratives

The presence of Kawhi Leonard on the MVP ballot, despite his initial non-selection, presents a contrast to the clear-cut MVP winner, Anthony Edwards.

Read More: Team Stars Win 2026 NBA All-Star Game, Anthony Edwards is MVP

PlayerAll-Star StatusMVP VotesTeam Performance
Kawhi LeonardInitially snubbed, later added4Not specified in MVP
Anthony EdwardsSelected, recognized as MVPN/ALed Stars to win

Expert Analysis

Commentary surrounding Kawhi Leonard's All-Star status highlighted his statistical achievements. One report noted that Leonard is the first player in NBA history to average his current numbers and not be named an NBA All-Star. This situation implies that while his on-court contributions were statistically significant, they did not translate into an initial All-Star nod through the standard selection channels.

Conclusion

The data indicates that Kawhi Leonard received four votes for the NBA All-Star Game MVP award. This occurred despite him not being an initial selection for the game, a fact that had been widely discussed as a "snub." Anthony Edwards was officially named MVP. Leonard's performance this season, marked by career-high scoring and leading statistics in steals and free-throw shooting, appears to have garnered him significant appreciation from some voters, even after the main selection process concluded. The four MVP votes for Leonard underscore the debate around his initial exclusion and suggest a strong sentiment regarding his impact on the league this season.

Sources

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Did Kawhi Leonard win the All-Star MVP?
No, Anthony Edwards was named the MVP. But Kawhi Leonard did get four votes for MVP.
Q: Why was Kawhi Leonard not picked to start?
The story says he was not picked at first. Many people thought this was unfair because he played very well this season.
Q: Was Kawhi Leonard added to the All-Star team?
Yes, he was added to the team later after people talked about him being left out.
Q: How did Kawhi Leonard play this year?
He had a great season, scoring more points than ever. He also got many steals and made most of his free throws.