James Harden is now on the Philadelphia 76ers, though he will not represent the team at the upcoming 2022 NBA All-Star Game.
The honor of replacing him should go to none other than Cleveland Cavaliers big man Jarrett Allen, who the Brooklyn Nets included as part of a four-team deal in their initial pursuit of Harden in Jan. 2021.
Allen was one of the most interesting pieces that Brooklyn’s front office surrendered to land Harden just thirteen months ago. Already, however, Harden’s time with the Nets has come to an end. Allen’s time in Cleveland, meanwhile, appears to be just getting started.
Considering they were traded for each other, if Allen were to replace Harden, it would have fascinating implications. But we don’t just want to see Allen in the game because of the connection he has to Harden through the blockbuster trade.
When the initial roster was revealed, our own Cole Huff called Allen one of the biggest snubs excluded from the festivities. It’s worth noting that Huff’s other two snubs — Dejounte Murray and LaMelo Ball — were both selected by commissioner Adam Silver as injury replacements and both will play in the game.
Additionally, the NBA All-Star Game will be held in Cleveland at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Although the Cavs already have Darius Garland in the game, here some more reasons why Allen should get the nod as well:
