LaMarcus Aldridge to start All-Star game

LaMarcus Aldridge has been selected ahead of Kevin Durant to start in the Western Conference team for the NBA's annual All-Star game this evening.

Anthony Davis had originally been voted into the starting lineup, but he pulled out of the contest earlier this week after spraining his shoulder.

Durant, who missed the start of the season with a broken foot, had been expected to start in Davis's place, but the current MVP has been struggling with some lingering injuries, leading Steve Kerr to pick Aldridge instead.

The Portland Trail Blazers forward has averaged 23.6 points per game so far this season.