The NBA All-Star Weekend arrives swiftly right after the NFL season wraps up, bringing the league’s top talent together in Los Angeles for a host of exciting events, including the All-Star Game, Slam Dunk Contest, and 3-Point Contest. As of February 11th, FanDuel Sportsbook offers odds and insights on each competition.
This year’s All-Star Game features three teams competing in a round-robin format: two American squads and one international team. The favored USA Stripes roster boasts seasoned stars like Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard, though LeBron James is sidelined due to injury. The USA Stars team includes Cade Cunningham, Anthony Edwards, and Devin Booker, while the World team features players like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, and Victor Wembanyama. Notably, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo are out with injuries.
For the All-Star MVP, Victor Wembanyama leads the odds at +450, followed by Tyrese Maxey and Devin Booker among others. Only Stephen Curry from the last five MVP winners will participate, with others like Damian Lillard and Jayson Tatum sidelined due to injuries. If Wembanyama secures the MVP, it would mark his first time winning in just his second All-Star appearance.
The Slam Dunk Contest will see a new champion crowned after Mac McClung’s three-year reign ended with his absence this year. Contestants include rookie forward Carter Bryant of the Spurs, seventh-year Lakers center Jackson Hayes, Heat second-year forward Keshad Johnson, and rookie guard Jace Richardson—who is the son of two-time Slam Dunk winner Jason Richardson.
In the 3-Point Contest, rookie Con Knuppel stands out with impressive shooting stats, already surpassing Stephen Curry’s rookie record for made 3-pointers. Damian Lillard is also competing, aiming to become the third player to win the contest three times despite recovering from a torn Achilles tendon.
Fan Take: This year’s All-Star Weekend promises thrilling competition and fresh narratives, especially with new stars stepping up amid injuries to veterans. Fans should watch closely, as these events spotlight the evolving talent shaping the future of basketball and could redefine fan favorites for years to come.
