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[Saba Sports News] The initial fan returns for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game are in, highlighting a blend of legendary names and rising stars vying for recognition.
While perennial favorites like LeBron James and Stephen Curry remain prominent, neither tops their categories, signaling the rise of a new generation of NBA talent.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads all guards with 1,053,683 votes, thanks to his standout performances and leadership on the league-best Oklahoma City Thunder. Hot on his heels is Dallas Mavericks sensation Luka Doncic with 870,071 votes, continuing to captivate fans with his all-around brilliance. Stephen Curry, despite limited action this season, ranks third with 810,357 votes, underscoring his enduring popularity.
Kyrie Irving (503,567 votes) and Anthony Edwards (411,749 votes) round out the top five, showcasing a mix of established names and rising talent. Other notable guards in the top 10 include James Harden, Ja Morant, and De’Aaron Fox, with Devin Booker and Norman Powell also making the list.
Reigning MVP Nikola Jokic leads the Western Conference frontcourt with a commanding 1,422,121 votes. Kevin Durant follows closely with 1,268,799 votes, proving his continued popularity. LeBron James, in his remarkable 22nd season, secures the third spot with 1,167,661 votes.
Anthony Davis (999,540 votes) and rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama (928,501 votes) complete the top five, reflecting a generational shift. Other players in the top 10 include Alperen Sengun, Jalen Williams, Andrew Wiggins, Domantas Sabonis, and Jaren Jackson Jr.
LaMelo Ball claims the top spot among Eastern Conference guards with 947,444 votes, showcasing his growing influence. Donovan Mitchell of the Cavaliers is close behind with 718,084 votes, while Damian Lillard, now with the Milwaukee Bucks, sits third with 704,914 votes.
Jalen Brunson (477,253 votes) and Trae Young (353,452 votes) round out the top five, with Cade Cunningham, Tyrese Maxey, Jordan Poole, Tyler Herro, and Derrick White completing the top 10.
Giannis Antetokounmpo leads all players in voting with an impressive 1,710,630 votes, solidifying his status as the Eastern Conference’s centerpiece. Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics follows with 1,385,851 votes, while Karl-Anthony Towns of the Knicks ranks third with 1,099,966 votes.
Rounding out the top five are Orlando Magic phenom Paolo Banchero and Celtics star Jaylen Brown. Jimmy Butler, Franz Wagner, Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Evan Mobley complete the list, emphasizing the depth of talent in the Eastern Conference.
The first fan returns highlight the enduring admiration for established legends like LeBron and Curry while also showcasing the rise of young stars such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and LaMelo Ball. With fan voting still underway, the race for starting spots in the 2025 All-Star Game promises excitement and potential surprises as the final tallies approach.