Houston Rockets forward K.J. Martin will participate in the Slam Dunk Contest at NBA All-Star Weekend, league sources told The Athletic on Sunday. Here’s what you need to know:
- The 6-foot-7 wing is in the midst of a breakout season, averaging 10.4 points, 4.8 rebounds and 55 percent shooting across 39 games (eight starts).
- The Slam Dunk Contest takes place on Feb. 18 in Salt Lake City.
- Portland Trail Blazers rookie Shaedon Sharpe is also participating in the contest, The Athletic reported on Jan. 5.
What to expect from Martin
Martin’s disappointment about not participating in last year’s Slam Dunk Contest was the worst-kept secret inside Houston’s locker room. In his third year in a Rockets uniform, Martin is posting career highs in minutes and points and continues to have a penchant for highlight-worthy plays. From what he’s been able to showcase athletically, Martin should be considered a dark horse in what figures to be a talented field. — Iko
Required reading
- The Rockets have the NBA’s worst offense, but should they?
- NBA Draft Lottery for Rockets? Victor Wembanyama’s fit, team development and more
- Rockets trade scenarios: What I’m hearing about Eric Gordon, K.J. Martin and more
(Photo: Thomas Shea / USA Today)