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2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest Odds, Field, Picks, Predictions
Expert on 40-17 run shares best bets for the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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The 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest will feature a new field as three-time winner Mac McClung will not be participating. The four players competing are Carter Bryant (Spurs), Jaxson Hayes (Lakers), Keshad Johnson (Heat), and Jase Richardson (Magic). The contest will be the final event of All-Star Saturday Night, which begins at 5 p.m. ET and also includes the Shooting Stars and 3-Point Contest.
Why it matters
The Slam Dunk Contest is one of the most anticipated events of NBA All-Star Weekend, showcasing the league's most athletic and creative players. With a new field, there is excitement to see who will emerge as the next Slam Dunk champion.
The details
The Slam Dunk Contest features a two-round format, with judges scoring each dunk. In Round 1, all four players will attempt two dunks, and the combined score will determine the top two who advance to the final round. Each finalist will then attempt two more dunks, with the higher combined score determining the champion.
- The 2026 Slam Dunk Contest will be the third and final event on All-Star Saturday Night, which begins at 5 p.m. ET on February 14, 2026.
The players
Carter Bryant
A player for the San Antonio Spurs, Bryant enters as the 2026 Slam Dunk Contest favorite at +180 at FanDuel.
Jaxson Hayes
A center for the Los Angeles Lakers, Hayes is listed at 7-feet tall and is priced at +250 to win the contest.
Keshad Johnson
A player for the Miami Heat, Johnson is priced at +320 to win the 2026 Slam Dunk Contest.
Jase Richardson
A player for the Orlando Magic, Richardson is the longshot at +350 to win the 2026 Slam Dunk Contest.
What they’re saying
“Hayes is listed as 7-feet tall. Dwight Howard (6-11) and Larry Nance (6-10) are the only players at least 6-10 to win the award, so I'm eliminating Hayes from consideration.”
— Mike Barner, NBA Expert (SportsLine)
“Barner's Slam Dunk contest winner is a longshot he describes as having "the potential to provide some exciting, high-flying dunks.”
— Mike Barner, NBA Expert (SportsLine)
What’s next
Barner has analyzed the 2026 Slam Dunk contest from all angles and locked in his picks and predictions, which can be found at SportsLine.
The takeaway
With a new field of participants, the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest promises to be an exciting event showcasing the league's most athletic and creative players. Fans will be eager to see who emerges as the next champion.
