The Slam Dunk Contest has at all times been one of many marquee occasions throughout All-Star Weekend. It’s sometimes the ultimate competitors of the Saturday night time festivities, and might generally present highlights that dwell on in NBA eternity, like these of Vince Carter or Aaron Gordon.
NBA: First All-Star In Dunk Contest Since 2018
Jaylen Brown retreating at dunk follow! 😛
What does the 3x #NBAAllStar have in retailer for #ATTSlamDunk?#StateFarmSaturday: 2/17 at 8:00pm/et on TNT pic.twitter.com/JZuArCz2Bl
— NBA (@NBA) February 14, 2024
However some would argue that the occasion has misplaced a few of its luster over the previous handful of years, and that’s largely because of the lack of massive names that take part.
Take the newest model of the Dunk Contest, for instance. Of the 4 members in 2023, one was averaging 5 factors per recreation, one was a G-Leaguer, and the opposite two have been KJ Martin and Trey Murphy III. The occasion ended up being received by Mac McClung, the G-League participant.
The dearth of star energy within the NBA Slam Dunk Contest has been a theme. The truth is, within the 9 years main as much as 2024, solely three present All-Stars have competed; Andre Drummond in 2016, DeAndre Jordan in 2017, and Victor Oladipo in 2018. There hasn’t been one since.
Till this yr. Whereas the sector for 2024 nonetheless contains some lesser-known names just like the Mac McClung and Jacob Toppin, probably the greatest gamers on the most effective group within the league can be collaborating. Boston Celtics wing Jaylen Brown has entered his identify into the pool for All-Star Weekend this yr, offering the occasion with a much-needed increase of star energy.
Who Is The Favourite To Win In 2024?
All-Stars within the NBA Slam Dunk Contest
(By way of @Sportico ) pic.twitter.com/CnkEtcqQrY
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 16, 2024
Whereas Brown will definitely be probably the most recognizable identify, Miami Warmth rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. can even be one of many 4. Jaquez burst onto the scene with a scorching begin to his first season within the NBA, and although he has cooled off a bit, continues to be thought of to be one of many higher first-year gamers within the league this yr.
In keeping with the oddsmakers at BetOnline, it’s final yr’s champion who has the most effective probability of taking house the {hardware} tonight in Indianapolis. McClung is listed because the heavy favourite with a -275 designation, with Brown being the next-closest on the listing at +450. Jaquez Jr is again at +800 whereas Toppin is listed at +900.
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