Lakers' Hayes vs Spurs' Bryant Headline 2026 Slam Dunk Contest

Merlin sees the first two entrants for the 2026 Slam Dunk Contest locked in: Lakers big man Jaxson Hayes and Spurs rookie Carter Bryant have agreed to compete, and three-time defending champion Mac McClung confirmed he "would not be participating." With All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles Feb. 13 to 15, McClung’s absence guarantees a new king of the skies. Hayes brings size and recent flair, hitting an Eastbay between-the-legs and logging 64 dunk attempts this season, tied for 20th in the league. Bryant arrives in a breakout rookie run and even made a deal with teammates to shave his head if he misses three more. Merlin senses high-flying creativity will meet stagecraft and nerves, and that surprise finishes are likely in a field hungry for a new legend.