NBA All-Star 2013: Andrew Nicholson to replace Andre Drummond in Rising Stars game

Dec. 09, 2012; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Orlando Magic forward Andrew Nicholson (44) reacts on the court during the game against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at US Airways Center. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Stewart-USA TODAY Sports

Andre Drummond was the 9th pick in last year’s draft, and has had an overall successful season with the Detroit Pistons. However, due to his recent back injury, which will sideline the young center for four to six weeks, he will not have the pleasure of participating in the All-Star festivities in Houston this year.

While Drummond has not played big minutes this year, he is still extremely efficient, holding a 22.53 player efficiency rating. According to Adrian Wojnarowski, Andrew Nicholson, of the Orlando Magic, will replace Drummond in the All-Star Rising Stars game:

Orlando’s Andrew Nicholson chosen to replace injured Andre Drummond in Rising Stars game on All-Star weekend, league source tells Y! Sports.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) February 10, 2013

Nicholson was selected 19th overall in the 2012 NBA draft, and has put up several impressive performances as he adjusts to the NBA. Mostly due to the absence of Glen Davis, Nicholson’s minutes have increased in February, as he is averaging 25.6 minutes per game this month. In Orlando’s last game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Nicholson had his second-best scoring performance of the season, contributing with 21 points and 8 rebounds in a losing effort.

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