Vinny Del Negro thinks Joakim Noah should be an All-Star

Former Chicago Bulls and current Los Angeles Clippers coach Vinny Del Negro believes Bulls center Joakim Noah should be an All-Star this season.

"I thought he was close last season or so; Jo definitely deserves it," Del Negro told Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago. "Statistically, energy at that position. I'm a big fan of Joakim's, always have been, just because of his enthusiasm and his effort and he's a worker. He brings great energy every night, which is contagious."

Del Negro coached Noah for two seasons with the Bulls. Noah is averaging 14.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.0 blocks and 1.2 steals per game this season.

Noah and most centers could have more difficulty making the All-Star Game this season, however, because the NBA did away with the center position on its All-Star ballot this season. Noah and all centers will be vying among all frontcourt options for spots on the team. In the past, All-Star rosters have included a minimum of two centers.