Joe Johnson named NBA All-Star

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- Atlanta Hawks guard Joe Johnson says he is looking forward to his first NBA All-Star Game next week.

Johnson was named Wednesday to replace the injured Jason Kidd of the New Jersey Nets on the Eastern conference squad.

"I'm happy and excited to be named to the Eastern Conference team," the 6-foot-7 inch Johnson said as the Hawks prepared to face the Los Angeles Clippers Wednesday night. "Obviously, I'm looking forward to my first All-Star experience. It's a tremendous honor and accomplishment for me, my coaches, teammates and the organization."

Johnson leads the Hawks with 25.1 points, 4.3 assists, and 4.2 points per contest in 47 games.

The six-year veteran from Baylor is tenth on the NBA's scoring list and has scored at least 30 points 16 times.

Johnson's streak of appearances in 376 straight games was broken on Dec. 10, 2006 at Sacramento by a calf strain.