(Sports Network) - Orlando center Dwight Howard continues to lead all NBA players in returns for the 2009 NBA All-Star balloting, while Los Angeles Lakers guard and reigning MVP Kobe Bryant leads the Western Conference in vote receipts.

Howard, last year's Slam Dunk champion, has tallied 1,709,088 votes through the third returns, tops in the Eastern Conference in front of forward LeBron James of Cleveland (1,521,272) and Miami guard Dwyane Wade (1,473,225).

Kevin Garnett of Boston (1,101,541) is the second-leading vote-getter among forwards in the Eastern Conference, while Detroit's Allen Iverson (1,027,153) is second among guards, and Philadelphia's Samuel Dalembert (239,089) is second among centers.

Bryant has received 1,534,020 votes out West, holding an edge over Houston center Yao Ming (1,396,126), who holds a sizable lead over Phoenix's Shaquille O'Neal (727,975) for the center spot.

Bryant also leads Houston's Tracy McGrady (961,852) among Western Conference guards.

Tim Duncan of San Antonio (1,132,095) and Amare Stoudemire of Phoenix (743,639) are the top two forwards.

Paper balloting will continue through January 11 with wireless tallies ceasing January 19, three days before the announcement of the starters for both conferences.

The 58th NBA All-Star Game is scheduled to take place in Phoenix on Sunday, February 15.





















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