The first half of the season is over after last night's win over the Pistons (yes, I realize we are way past the midway point, schedule wise, but the NBA generally looks at the season in terms of pre- and post-All-Star break). As I said last night, all things considered I'm pretty happy to be sitting here at 31-21 with a 3.5 game lead for the 4th seed in the Eastern Conference. We'll return to regular season discussion after the weekend, but for now let's turn out attention to the happenings out in Phoenix, where the Hawks will be as amply represented as they've ever been.

Here again is a schedule of the events of interest for Hawks fans:

The first event to pay attention to, obviously, will be Friday night's Rookie-Sophomore tilt, featuring Al Horford. Once again I think Al will have a shot at some MVP honors if his teammates can provide him with the requisite number of alley-oops and putback opportunities. However, given the way Kevin Durant has played of late, I imagine he'll be chucking it in much the same way his fellow former-Longhorn Daniel Gibson did en route to winning MVP honors for the Sophs a year ago. But I'd say count on at least a couple rim-rockers from Big Al over the course of the night.

Saturday, Joe Johnson will look to earn some well-deserved recognition when he competes in the H-O-R-S-E competition to be broadcast during the All-Star Saturday Night festivities. By the way - is JJ actually starting to gain some national pub? First he is chosen to compete in a brand new competition; then he is prominently featured in Nike's new Jumpman commercial campaign? It's kinda awesome.

In addition, Mike Bibby will get his distance on in the Three-Point Shootout. If you haven't seen our video of him discussing strategy with Mark Price yet, I highly recommend it.

Finally on Sunday, Johnson will make his third straight appearance in the NBA All-Star game. All in all, it should make for an enjoyable weekend of action for the Hawks franchise.

What are your thoughts? Predictions for the outcomes of the different games/contests?