The NBA All-star weekend is slated to arrive in Los Angeles, California on Feb. 16-18. With the roster for the All-star game set, it is time to start thinking of the possible participants for the memorable All-star Foot Locker Three-Point Contest and NBA All-star Slam Dunk Contest.
The three-point contest during All-star weekend is considered to have "rivaled" the dunk contest ratings since the Golden State Warriors won their 2015 NBA title through a barrage of three-pointers. As a result, the NBA has invited multiple All-star caliber players to partake in this event. One of the stars that fans can expect to see this year is Warriors shooting guard and former three-point contest champion, Klay Thompson.
According to sources close to Anthony Slater, a sportswriter for The Athletic, Thompson has accepted an invitation and will play his fourth straight three-point shootout in front of his hometown in Los Angeles. Another returning face is Phoenix Suns rising star Devin Booker, who surprised many after flying under the radar in last year's competition. Cavaliers' All-star and big man Kevin Love has also reportedly received an invitation but has yet to accept, according to sources of Cleveland.com.
As for the dunk contest, participants are not as clear. Many expect the likes of Los Angeles Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. and Indiana Pacers All-star Victor Oladipo to participate.
According to sources of Yahoo Sports, the four potential participants would be the two aforementioned dunkers along with Orlando Magic forward Aaron Gordon, and Dallas Mavericks rookie, Dennis Smith Jr.
Gordon, who made a spectacular showing during the 2016 NBA Dunk contest, will be suiting up for his third straight dunk contest appearance should he join in Los Angeles. Smith Jr., is another intriguing prospect after a solid start to his rookie season.
The NBA All-star 2018 Three-point and Dunk contests will be on Feb. 17, Saturday.
