We’re still waiting on the NBA to release its choices for the Three-Point Contest during All-Star Weekend. The contest is sneakily the best part of All-Star Weekend, but the rosters can be hit-or-miss.
I’ve picked the perfect candidates based on skill, drama, and telegenic appeal. Last year, the league decreased the number of shooters to six, so apologies to PJ Tucker and Fred VanVleet for just missing the cut.
The perfect NBA Three-Point Contest lineup this season
1. Stephen Curry | 37.9 percent, 12.6 3PA | We know that he’s been in a slump for some time now, but everyone knows that the best way to break out of a rut is to shoot a ton of three-pointers in non-game situations under a quick clock that might force you to use bad form! After all, the Home Run Derby notoriously provides a massive boost to contestants afterward, so why not try it here?
2. Seth Curry | 40.3 percent, 5.5 3PA | Seth has quietly been one of the best shooters in league history during his past few years, and now will be another chance to crush his brother and finally claim the title of world’s best shooter!
3. Jonas Valanciunas | 40.2 percent, 2.4 3PA | True centers never get chosen for the NBA Three-Point Contest (unless you count small ball fives like Dirk Nowitzki and Channing Frye), and Jonas would be a nice flagbearer for all the post mashers out there who also have a nice touch from range. His release is slow, so the time limit could be a problem, but watching the giant lurch between racks and casually fling up set shots would certainly be different.
4. Klay Thompson | 32.9 percent, 7.3 3PA | Sure, he’s struggled in his return so far, but Thompson’s never shot less than 40 percent for a season from three, and you know he’d be amped for a chance to prove that he’s truly back. Klay vs. Steph in any shooting contest remains must-watch television.
5. Karl Anthony-Towns | 40.9 percent, 5.4 3PA | It’s kind of surprising that KAT has never been in this contest before. His stroke is as sweet as anybody’s, and it would be awesome to see a big man show up and dominate. Let’s put his claim of being “the greatest big man shooter of all time” (subscription required) to the test!
6. Russell Westbrook | 30.9 percent, 3.5 3PA | If adding Russ Westbrook doesn’t increase viewership by 1000 percent, I’ll eat my Beastbrook t-shirt. You’re welcome, NBA.