Cavs' Allen replaces injured Harden on All-Star team

NBA commissioner Adam Silver selected Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen to replace the injured James Harden at this weekend's All-Star Game in Cleveland, the league announced on Monday.

In his fifth season, the 23-year-old Allen has emerged as a core piece for the ascendent Cavs. In 32.6 minutes per game, the 6-foot-11 big man has averaged 16.2 points, 11.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.3 blocks - all while providing some of the league's best interior defense.

Along with the previously announced Darius Garland, Allen's selection gives Cleveland its first pair of All-Stars since 2018, when LeBron James and Kevin Love were both selected. As it happens, Allen will join Garland as a reserve on Team LeBron.

Harden, selected to his 10th All-Star Game, will miss the festivities while rehabbing his left hamstring. The Philadelphia 76ers acquired the veteran guard from the Brooklyn Nets last week.