Arenas takes O’Neal’s place in All-Star Game

New York, NY (Basketball News) - Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas was named to the Eastern Conference team for the upcoming NBA All-Star Game Friday as an injury replacement for Indiana Pacers forward Jermaine O’Neal.

Arenas, who currently ranks fourth in the league with a career-best 28.2 points per game scoring average, will be making his second consecutive All- Star appearance. The fifth-year standout also stands third among NBA players with 109 three-point field goals made, ninth in steals (1.76/gm.) and 16th in assists (5.9 apg) this season.

"It’s a blessing," said Arenas of his selection. "It’s an honor to be an All- Star and I’m really happy that Commissioner (David Stern) has chosen me. I’m excited and honored to be picked among the best players in the game, and I’m looking forward to representing my teammates and coaches and this entire organization at the All-Star Game."

O’Neal was voted as one of the East’s five starters but is expected to be sidelined until late March because of a torn left groin muscle. His replacement in the starting lineup has not yet been announced.

Arenas earned a spot as a reserve on last year’s Eastern Conference squad and averaged 25.5 points, 5.1 assists and 4.7 rebounds for the Wizards in 2004-05.

The 2006 All-Star Game will take place February 19 at the Toyota Center in Houston.