Orlando Magic forward Aaron Gordon has reportedly withdrawn from the Slam Dunk Contest, due to a strained left hip flexor, which will keep him out of several upcoming games as well.
Gordon, who has competed in the last two dunk contests, was slated to compete against Los Angeles Lakers forward, Larry Nance Jr, Indiana Pacers' guard Victor Oladipo, and Dallas Mavericks' rookie sensation, Dennis Smith Jr.
According to George Diaz of the Orlando Sentinel, Gordon is expected to miss Orlando's game against the Miami Heat tonight, as well as tomorrow night's matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. With Gordon unable to compete in the Slam Dunk Contest, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports that Utah Jazz rookie Donovan Mitchell has been selected as the replacement.
https://twitter.com/_/status/960555446791753728
https://twitter.com/_/status/960555663071039490
https://twitter.com/_/status/960561180594106368
The NBA's Slam Dunk Contest will take place on All-Star Saturday night, the night before the All-Star Game, as always. In addition to the Dunk Contest, which will close out the festivities on Saturday, February 17th, fans will also see the 3-Point contest as well as the Skills Challenge.
Those competing in the 3-Point contest include: last year's champ Eric Gordon (Rockets), Klay Thompson (Warriors), Bradley Beal (Wizards), Paul George (Thunder), Kyle Lowry (Raptors), Devin Booker (Suns), Wayne Ellington (Heat), Tobias Harris (Clippers).
The Skills Challenge will include: last year's champ Kristaps Porzingis (Knicks), Spencer Dinwiddie (Nets), Joel Embiid (76ers), Al Horford (Celtics), Lauri Markkanen (Bulls), Donovan Mitchell (Jazz), Jamal Murray (Nuggets), and Lou Williams (Clippers).
