Gilbert McGregor
The 74th NBA All-Star Game is set to take place in San Francisco on Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025. And while the game is still a ways away, it’s never too early to look ahead to what to expect during the showcase.
This year’s All-Star Game will have a new format, with the 24 NBA All-Stars split into three teams of eight to compete in a mini-tournament with the winning team from the NBA’s Rising Stars Game. Different as the format is, the process of selecting All-Stars
As in years past, NBA All-Star Game starters will be determined by the fans, a media panel and other NBA players. The fan vote accounts for 50 percent of voting while the media and NBA player vote accounts for the other 50 percent.
With All-Star voting underway, I’m putting my voting cap on in an attempt to forecast the 10 players most likely to receive recognition as starters in this year’s All-Star Game. As a reminder, All-Star lineups consist of two guards and three frontcourt players from each conference.
I’ll start with LeBron James, who may be the most controversial selection. James has had some struggles this season — particularly on the defensive end of the floor. And while he’ll soon turn 40 and has not necessarily played up to his standard, he’s averaging 22.8 points, 8.0 rebounds and 9.1 assists per game. His seven triple-doubles this season are second behind only the next guy.
Nikola Jokic is probably the biggest no-brainer here. After resetting the bar of what to expect from him, he has somehow outdone himself again. Despite Denver’s flaws, Jokic is having a career year as a scorer and sits in the top two in scoring, rebounding and assists per game. He is the best basketball player in the world and an All-Star start should be the first of many accolades in 2025.