This year’s edition of the Sprite Slam Dunk Competition puts four young, up-and-coming players under the bright lights of the Barclays Center in New York City. Zack LaVine, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Victor Oladipo and Mason Plumlee put their dunking skills to the test. Which of these four can slam his way for the 2015 Slam Dunk crown? Read on as we break down this thunderous affair so you can find the man you want to back this weekend.
Wait. Where and how can you watch this highly-anticipated event? We answer that question with our feature here. Want more on the All-Star Game itself? Check out our preview here. Meanwhile read on for more on the league’s sharpshooters duking it our for supremacy in the Three-Point Contest.
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2015 NBA All Star Sprite Slam Dunk Competition Predictions and Preview
[sc:NBA240banner ]The Minnesota Timberwolves may be sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference, but they should be pretty excited for the future. They have a pair or outstanding rookies in the first overall pick Andrew Wiggins and 14th overall Zach LaVine.
Of the two, LaVine has showcased elite athleticism and an affinity for unleashing monster dunks. From alley-oops, put backs and 360 windmill dunks, he can do it all. His flashy style has him leading the pack as -110 favorite on Saturday.
Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo is a rare breed. The guard-forward hybrid has used his physical gifts and athleticism to help the Bucks become one of the surprise teams in the Eastern Conference. He stands at 6’11” and has a standing reach of 7’3” which he has used to posterize centers such as Chris Bosh as well as superstars like Carmelo Anthony.
Antetokounmpo’s highlight reel is amazing, and he also fetches quite a good price at +180.
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Victor Oladipo – Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic are still rebuilding. And they couldn’t be any happier at how Victor Oladipo has taken a big step forward in his second year as a pro. Oladipo has enjoyed overall improvement in almost all aspects of the game. It’s also the youthful confidence that has allowed him to display showmanship (360 dunks!) as well as posterizing defenders (even LeBron James!).
Oladipo is +275 to win the 2015 Sprite Slum Dunk Contest.
Mason Plumlee – Brooklyn Nets
Just one game behind the final playoff spot in the East, Brooklyn is flying under the radar waiting for the perfect opportunity to pounce. So is Nets center Mason Plumlee. You may be left scratching your head thinking how on Earth can Plumlee contend with the likes of LaVine and Antetokounmpo.
Still, don’t count out Plumlee. He’s shown that he can dunk on guys and, more importantly, show-off on open court dunks. Plumlee is the most unassuming guy in the slam dunk contest, and he brings a lot of bang for your buck at +750.
Writer’s Prediction
Antetokounmpo (+180) wins with spectacular, breath-taking dunks all night long.
