And the Slam Dunk Contest Participants COULD Be...
Josh Cohen’s Analysis (Jan. 22, 2014): We are still about two weeks away until the league decides the participants in this year’s All-Star Slam Dunk competition. But if I had to predict who the competitors would be, here is my forecast.
Terrence Ross, Raptors (defending champion) – While he didn’t necessarily dazzle anyone in last year’s contest, he obviously will be asked to defend his crown and his freakish athleticism offers the possibility of him crafting together something spectacular.
Victor Oladipo, Magic – He is one of the most electrifying rookies and some of his in-game dunks, including a 360 jam, have been magnificent. Participation in this contest would give Oladipo the stage to flaunt his athletic gifts.
Jordan Crawford, Warriors – He isn’t necessarily a high-flyer, but he did generate one of the most watched amateur dunks in Internet history. Several years back while still in college, Crawford dunked over LeBron James during a scrimmage at a local Ohio camp.
Jordan Hamilton, Nuggets – He has finally started to get some significant playing time in Denver and this may be an opportunity to show off his leaping ability. Hamilton displayed one of the best collegiate dunks of his generation while at Texas.
DeAndre Jordan, Clippers – When we think of the Clippers and dunking, we automatically think about Blake Griffin, who won the dunk competition in front of the hometown L.A. fans in 2011. But B.G. isn’t the only one showcasing his rather impressive dunks. Jordan has been equally outstanding in that category and the league has already offered him an invite to participate.
Paul George, Pacers – It has been widely reported that the league has asked George to participate and he has yet to give a response. George is apparently waiting to see who else is a part of the event, but when all is decided hopefully he will join in and give the dunk competition a much-needed boost.
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