Add "four-time NBA All-Star" to Al Horford's resume.
The Atlanta Hawks star center became a last-minute addition to the Eastern Conference roster, replacing Miami Heat big man Chris Bosh, who is reportedly sidelined with a left calf strain. Horford confirmed his selection on Twitter and the NBA's official announcement — commissioner Adam Silver holds the responsibility for naming All-Star replacements, when needed — followed early Friday evening.
Horford, 29, joins frontcourt teammate Paul Millsap for All-Star Weekend for the second consecutive season.
What a privilege to be named to the #NBAAllStarTO team. Looking forward to representing Atlanta! #Grateful
— Al Horford (@Al_Horford) February 12, 2016
While Horford, who is set to become a highly coveted unrestricted free agent at the end of the season, has watched his numbers take a slight step back from last season, he remains one of the most skilled and productive big men in the league.
He's averaging 15.3 points and 6.9 rebounds per game this season and his six win shares rank 18th in the NBA, right behind Bosh, LaMarcus Aldridge (Spurs) and Danilo Gallinari (Nuggets). Horford's added range — hitting 55 3-pointers thus far after making just 21 in his previous eight seasons — has only made him a more challenging matchup for opposing bigs.
