~ Originally considered as having been snubbed for the All-Star game, the Nuggets’ Carmelo Anthony and Mavericks’ Josh Howard are now both headed to Las Vegas as injury substitutions.
NBA commisioner David Stern named them as replacements on the West squad to take the places of Rockets’ Yao Ming (right knee) and the Jazz Carlos Boozer (left fibula).
This is the first all-star appearance for both Anthony and Howard.
You can check out the full rosters for both squads by clicking here:
The game will be held on Sunday, February 18 starting at 8PM EST.
~ The All-Star festivities run the entire weekend with the Rookie/Sophomore Game being played on Friday, February 16 at 9PM EST.
Last year the Sophomores defeated the Rookies 106-96.
~ Saturday, February 17 may be what most fans and players look forward to each year when this time rolls around. It’s the All-Star Saturday night and it all begins at 8PM EST.
Slam-Dunk Challenge: The Knicks’ Nate Robinson will defend his 2006 crown against first-timers Gerald Green (Celtics), Tyrus Thomas (Bulls), and Dwight Howard (Magic).
Skills Challenge: Dwyane Wade of the champion Miami Heat will try to win again as he faces off against Stave Nash (Suns), LeBron James (Cavaliers), and Kobe Bryant (Lakers).
3-Point Shoot-Out: Defending champ Dirk Nowitzki of the Dallas Mavericks will try and hold off Jason Terry (Mavs), Gilbert Arenas (Wizards), Damon Jones (Cavs), Mike Miller (Grizzlies), and Jason Kapono (Heat).
Credit: NBA.com
