Zach LaVine’s amazing performance in winning the 2015 NBA Slam Dunk Contest significantly increased the odds he would participate in the event again this season.
Chris Haynes of the Cleveland Plain Dealer cited league sources saying the defending champion will compete in the 2016 Slam Dunk Contest on Feb. 13 in Toronto, along with Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond, Orlando Magic forward Aaron Gordon and Denver Nuggets guard Will Barton.
LaVine will attempt to become the first repeat champion since Nate Robinson in 2009 and 2010. He’ll have plenty of competition if this field of contestants, though.
Drummond has become one of the league’s best centers and has thrown down some ferocious dunks in his career. Big men have done well in the Slam Dunk Contest in recent seasons, too — just look at Dwight Howard and Blake Griffin.
Of course, this event is all about creativity and originality. Showing the fans dunks we’ve never seen before is the key to success, and that shouldn’t be too difficult with such an athletic group of participants.
Thumbnail photo via Brad Rempel/USA TODAY Sports Images
