The biggest highlight of the NBA’s All-Star weekend is always the dunk contest. History is on the line this year as defending champion Mac McClung will look to join Nate Robinson as the only players to win the contest three times. McClung also has a chance to be the first to win three consecutive years.

Can a G-Leaguer make NBA history? Let’s find out.

Mac McClung, Orlando Magic/Osceola Magic (-200)

McClung has played exactly one game in the NBA this season, logging five minutes and no points. Despite putting up Bronny James-level stats, McClung is once again the betting favourite to win the dunk contest. McClung’s athleticism paired with his creativity should give him a good shot at becoming the first player ever to win the contest three years in a row.

Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls (+450)

Matas Buzelis is a versatile player who has capitalized on his opportunities since Zach LaVine was traded away. Buzelis is growing a ton of confidence with double-digit points in each of his last eight games and he’s already embarrassed a few veteran players with monster dunks this season.

Andre Jackson Jr., Milwaukee Bucks (+550)

Andre Jackson Jr. is a little bit of a jack-of-all-trades. He’s generally overshadowed in Milwaukee by Giannis Antetokounmpo, but he’s earned a little more playing time this season and his talent is immediately evident when you watch him play. If you’re looking for a long shot pick, keep in mind Jackson and Stephon Castle are both on the shorter end, so their dunks might look more impressive, and Jackson had the better vertical at their respective rookie combines.

Stephon Castle, San Antonio Spurs (+900)

Stephon Castle landed in a great position alongside Victor Wembanyama when San Antonio selected him with the fourth overall pick in last year’s draft. Castle should be a crowd pleaser with his ferocious finishing technique and his seemingly gravity-defying elevation.

Prediction

The names for the dunk contest field this year won’t blow away the casual fan, but it should be an entertaining event. These are all young players looking to make a name for themselves, so they’ll take it seriously and that’s a win for fans.

I have to give the edge to McClung. He’s been here before and he knows what the dunk contest is all about. Plus, I mean come on, he’s a G-League player, this is all he’s got. Let’s just hope McClung’s shot at a three-peat doesn’t go the way of Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.