The 3-point shootout has historically been the most high-profile All-Star Weekend event and this year is no exception. We’ve got a fantastic lineup in Charlotte, headlined by elite Point Guards in Steph Curry, Damian Lillard, and Kemba Walker. Sharpshooters Buddy Hield, Joe Harris, and Seth Curry will also get to show off their talents on the national stage. Mavs big man Dirk Nowitzki makes his final All-Star weekend appearance, and will no doubt give it his all here.
Favourites
The three clear favourites to take this contest out appear to be Steph Curry ($3), Buddy Hield ($4.50), and Devin Booker ($5). Curry is again having a phenomenal season from 3, registering 226 made 3’s at just under 45%. Hield is also having an incredibly underrated season from 3, making 192 3’s at a 45% clip. His injury problems have meant that Booker isn’t in the top 40 of made 3’s this season, however he has had some success in this event in the past. From this group, I’d have to give the clear edge to Curry at $3.
Dark Horses
This group has some interesting names including Damian Lillard, Joe Harris, and Seth Curry (all priced at $9) with Kemba Walker at $11. Lillard finds himself 8th in the association this season with 153 made 3’s, admittedly at a relatively poor 36% clip. Seth Curry and Joe Harris are probably the best shooters in this group, both shooting over 45% this season on decent volume. Walker is very much in the Lillard mould and is 5th in the NBA with 183 made 3’s at 36%. From this group, I’d say Damian Lillard has the best chance. He’s no stranger to the bright lights and is more than capable of getting streaky.
Unlikely
To round out the competition, we have Danny Green and Dirk Nowitzki at $15, with Khris Middleton at $21. This admittedly looks like a solid price for Danny Green, who is 18th in made 3’s this season and shoots them at 42%. Khris Middleton is just behind him in 24th position, shooting a respectable 38% too. Dirk honestly appears to just be making up the numbers and I expect him to struggle here with his lack of athleticism. Whilst I’d be surprised if any of these 3 take it out, I think there is some value on Green at the current price point.
Best Bet: Stephen Curry at $3
For me, Curry is far and away the best shooter on this list. Whilst he shoots an impressive 45% during the regular season, it gets even more impressive when you consider just how difficult his attempts are. Most of these are self-made and off the dribble, making the 3-point contest shots much easier for him. Returning to his home town of Charlotte, you know Steph will be motivated here in what may be his last 3-Point Shootout.
Value Bet: Damian Lillard at $9
In the same vein as Curry, most of Dame’s regular season 3-pointers are of the more difficult variety. He has a ton of offensive creation on his plate in Portland and his efficiency can sometimes suffer as a result. He’s experienced on this stage before and is a very streaky shooter. At $9, I definitely wouldn’t be shocked to see him and Steph battling in the Final.