When the NBA released the rosters for the All-Star Weekend's rookie challenge, Eddie Griffin's name was not on the list, reports Jonathan Feigen of the Houston Chronicle.  Griffin chalks the omission up to a slow start that has depressed his numbers: 7.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks.  But ever since a breakout game against the Lakers 7 games ago, Griffin has been one of the best rookies in the league, averaging 15.3 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.43 blocks.

Other Rockets think it ridiculous to keep him out of the event when he has played so well.  "It is ridiculous, ridiculous," Rockets forward Maurice Taylor said. "There is not a better rookie forward in the league. How can you dispute that? He's the best shot-blocking rookie that a lot of people have seen in a long time. He's the best rookie in the league. He deserves to be in the game."

The Rockets will be represented at the All-Star festivities, however.  Steve Francis has a comfortable lead on Gary Payton to start at guard alongside Kobe Bryant.  And Cuttino Mobley has been invited to represent Houston in the 3-on-3 tournament.  His teammates have not been disclosed.