NBA Slam Dunk Contest Odds, Rules, Picks, and Predictions: It’s Showtime for Johnson

The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend Slam Dunk Contest is a far cry from the days of Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Steve Francis battling it out.

This year’s field is full of lesser-known, lightly used players, so finding betting value in tonight’s Slam Dunk Contest predictions requires a closer look.

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That’s exactly what I’ve done with my NBA picks for Saturday, February 14, featuring Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson.

NBA Slam Dunk Contest odds

NBA Slam Dunk Contest rules

Before wagering on the Slam Dunk Contest, be sure to familiarize yourself with the latest rules for the 2026 edition:

• Four players will compete in a two-round competition.

• Five judges will score each dunk based on a score ranging from 40 to 50. 

• The two dunkers with the highest combined scores from their first two dunks advance to the finals.

• The final round will consist of two dunks by each dunker, with the highest composite score being crowned the champion.

• In the event of a tie, there will be one additional round of dunks. If the event is still tied, then the judges will be empowered to declare a winner by majority vote.

NBA Slam Dunk Contest

Carter Bryant (+180)

For what it’s worth, Carter Bryant is the favorite in this field of relative unknowns. The 6-foot-6 rookie wing was taken 14th overall by the San Antonio Spurs largely because of his explosive athleticism.

Bryant boasts a 39.5-inch vertical, but he hasn’t seen much playing time in San Antonio, and there isn’t much game footage of him dunking. As a result, it’s hard to see much value at his current price.

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Jaxson Hayes (+250)

Jaxson Hayes is an intriguing entrant, but there are reasons for skepticism. Historically, taller players have struggled in this competition (Dwight Howard being a notable exception), and Hayes isn’t exactly positioned as a fan favorite.

The 7-footer plays for the Los Angeles Lakers and was recently suspended one game for pushing a mascot. He also dealt with a domestic violence case earlier in his career. All things considered, this is a pass for me.

Keshad Johnson (+320)

Keshad Johnson is another explosive wing who has seen limited minutes with the Miami Heat.

Still, the 6-foot-6 forward boasts a ridiculous 42-inch vertical, and some of his in-game dunks this season have been truly eye-popping…