Overview of the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend Format and Favorites
The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend lands in Los Angeles, featuring the league’s biggest stars competing in multiple events including the All-Star Game, Slam Dunk Contest, and 3-Point Contest. In a novel format this year, the All-Star Game will have three teams instead of the traditional two: two American squads and one World team.
The three-team round-robin includes:
- USA Stripes: A veteran lineup with Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard.
- USA Stars: Younger stars like Cade Cunningham, Anthony Edwards, and Devin Booker.
- World Team: International talent led by Nikola Jokić, Luka Dončić, and Victor Wembanyama.
LeBron James will miss the game due to injury, and notable absences also include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Breaking Down the MVP Odds and Key Players
Victor Wembanyama stands as the clear MVP favorite at +450 odds, reflecting his rapid impact in his second All-Star appearance. The MVP race also includes notable candidates such as Tyrese Maxey (+900), Devin Booker (+1100), and Kevin Durant (+1100).
Historical Context of MVPs
Of the past five seasons, only Steph Curry remains active in the All-Star Weekend and is a two-time MVP winner (2022, 2025). Damian Lillard and Jayson Tatum, previous winners, will miss the weekend due to injury, opening the door for new talent to claim the spotlight.
Slam Dunk Contest: New Champion Expected
The Slam Dunk Contest will crown a new winner for the first time in three years. Mac McClung, the previous three-time champion, is absent, creating opportunity for rookies and young players:
- Carter Bryant (+180) – Spurs rookie forward and favorite.
- Jaxson Hayes (+250) – Lakers center with experience.
- Keshad Johnson (+320) – Heat second-year forward.
- Jase Richardson (+350) – Magic rookie guard and son of two-time dunk champ Jason Richardson.
3-Point Contest: The Rise of Kon Knueppel and Redemption for Lillard
Rookie sharpshooter Kon Knueppel leads 3-Point Contest odds at +380. Knueppel broke Curry’s rookie record for 3-pointers made this season, tallying 179 so far, averaging 3.4 threes per game.
Damian Lillard follows closely at +390, aiming to join Larry Bird and Craig Hodges as three-time champions despite recovering from last season’s Achilles injury.
Other contenders include Devin Booker (+550), Jamal Murray (+600), and Tyrese Maxey (+600).
Impact of Injuries on the Weekend’s Dynamics
Injuries play a significant role this year, with LeBron James, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined. These absences weaken some squads but highlight emerging stars like Wembanyama.
Kevin Durant and Devin Booker remain healthy and could greatly influence their respective teams’ success and individual accolades.
Betting Odds Summary Table
| Event | Favorite | Odds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBA All-Star Winner | USA Stripes | +155 | Veterans led by Curry, Durant |
| MVP Winner | Victor Wembanyama | +450 | Favored for his second All-Star MVP |
| Slam Dunk Winner | Carter Bryant | +180 | Rookie favorite; McClung absent |
| 3-Point Contest Winner | Kon Knueppel | +380 | Rookie record holder and sharpshooter |
What to Expect This Weekend: Predictions and Analysis
Based on current form and odds, the following scenarios are likely:
- The USA Stripes squad is poised to win the round-robin title due to their experience, but the World team could disrupt expectations given the talent of Wembanyama and Jokić.
- Wembanyama’s superior performance and international spotlight grant him MVP favoritism, potentially marking a milestone for international players.
- A fresh face will claim the Slam Dunk title, with Carter Bryant leading favorites.
- Kon Knueppel has strong momentum to capture the 3-Point Contest crown, but Lillard may provide a memorable performance making a comeback.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend promises to be a memorable showcase of basketball talent, with an innovative format and rising stars taking center stage. As Wembanyama leads MVP odds and new faces vie for dunk and 3-point honors, fans should expect dynamic competition and fresh narratives in Los Angeles this weekend.
