Al Horford named to Eastern Conference All-Star team
By John Buhler
Al Horford becomes the second member of the 2015-16 Atlanta Hawks to make the 2016 Eastern Conference All-Star team as a late addition to the East’s roster.
Al Horford joins teammate Paul Millsap to represent the 2015-16 Atlanta Hawks in the Eastern Conference All-Star Game in Toronto, Ontario on Sunday evening. Horford replaces Miami Heat center Chris Bosh in the Eastern Conference’s frontcourt.
Horford was initially one of the biggest snubs to not make the Eastern Conference All-Star team went it was first announced. Not that any of the players on the frontcourt of the East’s rosters were less deserving than Horford, but this is what happens when the All-Star teams only allow 12 players per team.
The biggest snub now to not make the Eastern Conference All-Star team is Charlotte Hornets point guard Kemba Walker, who is having a marvelous year for the Hornets as they are contending for a playoff berth.
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Perhaps the reasoning behind Horford’s inclusion is that the already undersized Eastern Conference All-Star roster needed a suitable frontcourt replacement for Bosh, who as of Friday will not take part in the All-Star Game. Nevertheless, Horford certainly earned his fourth trip to the NBA All-Star Game.
Al Horford’s inclusion solidifies how important the Atlanta Hawks’ frontcourt has been to the success of the team this season. Atlanta is in fourth place in the Eastern Conference with a 31-24 record and holding on to first place in the Southeast Division.
What has been a pleasant surprise to Al Horford’s strong 2015-16 NBA season has been the impressive inclusion of a three-point shot to his already great offensive game. This new three-point shot of Al Horford’s makes him a true stretch five and a more versatile player for when he hits the free agent market this summer. He will deservedly command a maximum contract offer for his nine great years so far with the Atlanta Hawks.
Having both Al Horford and Paul Millsap on the Eastern Conference All-Star Team makes this a must-watch television event on Valentine’s Day evening for the Atlanta Hawks faithful. While getting four All-Stars on the team last year was certainly a pleasant surprise, having Al Horford make the team only a few days before the event sparks a similar feeling.
Next: Atlanta Hawks: 2015-16 positives, negatives from first half
Congratulations, Al Horford on the All-Star Game nod! Well deserved. The 2016 NBA All-Star Game takes place on Sunday, February 14th in Toronto, Canada. Tipoff from the Air Canada Centre is at 8:00 PM ET and TNT will have the game. Go Al and Paul!