Griffin, record-tying 4 Celtics picked as reserves

“That way we can run offense in the All-Star game,” Rivers said. “That’d be a first.”

The Celtics (1953, ‘62 and ‘75); Lakers (‘62 and ‘98) and 76ers (‘83) also had four All-Stars. But only the Pistons, with Chauncey Billups, Richard Hamilton, Ben Wallace and Rasheed Wallace, had four reserves selected by the coaches.

The Heat’s own Big Three was recognized when Bosh was selected to his sixth All-Star game, even though his numbers have dropped significantly in his first year since leaving Toronto.

“Chris is definitely one of the top 24 guys that we have in this league, definitely one of the top 12 guys that we have in the Eastern Conference. So I don’t think it’s much of a debate,” James said. “Happy for him, absolutely. To be able to take three guys off one team, just compliments this team, first of all, and then our individual talents put together that we’re able to represent the Miami Heat that weekend.”

Duncan earned his 13th straight selection despite career-low numbers. Although Popovich has been monitoring Duncan’s minutes with the Spurs, the coach isn’t worried about a little extra playing time at Staples Center for his veteran big man.

“I’m actually thrilled that he was chosen,” Popovich said. “He’s been the bulwark of what we do for a number of years. We have a pretty good record (this season), and he’s a big part of that.”

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AP Sports Writers Tim Reynolds in Orlando, Fla., and Greg Beacham in Los Angeles and freelance writer Mike Petraglia in Waltham, Mass., contributed to this report.

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