Star Shooters Converge for 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest in Los Angeles: Expert Analysis and Betting Lines Unveiled.

Los Angeles is set to host one of the marquee events of NBA All-Star Weekend, as the league’s premier perimeter marksmen gather for the 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest. Scheduled for Saturday as a central feature of NBA All-Star Saturday Night, the highly anticipated competition will take place at the state-of-the-art Intuit Dome, commencing at 5 p.m. ET. Eight elite shooters will vie for the coveted title, including two former champions and a promising rookie.

The field for the 2026 contest boasts a blend of established All-Stars, seasoned veterans, and emerging talent. Among the notable participants are Devin Booker, a past winner of the event, and Damian Lillard, who enters as a two-time reigning champion from 2023 and 2024. They are joined by a contingent of current All-Stars: Donovan Mitchell, Tyrese Maxey, and Jamal Murray, each recognized for their dynamic scoring and long-range accuracy. Veteran presence comes in the form of Norman Powell, a former LA Clipper with an intimate knowledge of the Intuit Dome’s rims, and Bobby Portis, a versatile big man who leads this year’s field in three-point shooting percentage. Rounding out the impressive lineup is rookie sensation Kon Knueppel, an intriguing dark horse in the competition.

Early betting lines from FanDuel Sportsbook position Knueppel (+380) and Lillard (+390) as the narrow favorites. Booker, with his proven track record, sits at +550, while Maxey and Murray are both listed at +600. Mitchell is close behind at +650. For those seeking potential value, Norman Powell presents an attractive option at +950, particularly given his familiarity with the venue. Bobby Portis, despite his longer odds at +1700, could offer significant upside, backed by his league-leading three-point percentage among the contestants.

The Intuit Dome, serving as the new home for the LA Clippers, provides a fresh backdrop for the All-Star festivities. The atmosphere is expected to be electric as fans witness the precision and pressure of the 3-Point Contest, a perennial favorite for its rapid-fire scoring and dramatic finishes. Each participant will navigate a series of racks, attempting to convert as many shots as possible within a time limit, including specialized "money balls" and "Starry balls" offering additional points.

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SportsLine expert Mike Barner, a respected voice in the sports betting industry, has meticulously analyzed the field and released his predictions. Barner, whose work has been featured across prominent platforms such as Sports Illustrated, Yahoo, RotoWire, and ESPN Radio, is renowned for his data-driven approach and keen eye for identifying value. He enters All-Star Weekend on an impressive 40-17 run on NBA picks, generating a profit of +2014 for his followers. His stellar performance in the 2024-25 NBA season saw him finish with a record of 239-178-2, returning $3,209 to $100 bettors.

Barner’s in-depth analysis for the 2026 3-Point Contest notably includes a decision to fade two-time champion Damian Lillard (+390), despite his status as a co-favorite. The expert’s assessment centers on Lillard’s recovery from a torn Achilles, which has sidelined him for nearly 10 months leading up to the All-Star break. This extended absence, Barner argues, presents significant challenges. Lillard’s movement around the ball racks, a crucial element for efficiency in the contest, may be hampered. More critically, the lack of competitive game rhythm could severely impact his shooting consistency under pressure.

Further supporting Barner’s position is Lillard’s limited and challenging experience at the Intuit Dome. In his sole appearance at the venue last season, Lillard recorded a subpar 1-for-9 from beyond the arc, translating to an 11.1% shooting rate. This performance marked his worst three-point outing in any of the 50 games last season where he attempted at least seven shots from downtown. The historical context also weighs into Barner’s assessment; only two players, Larry Bird and Craig Hodges, have ever achieved a three-peat in the NBA 3-Point Contest. Barner’s data-driven insights suggest Lillard faces an uphill battle to join this exclusive club given his current circumstances.

The presence of Kon Knueppel as a favorite is particularly noteworthy for a rookie. While detailed collegiate or early professional statistics for Knueppel in 2026 are not provided, his inclusion as a favorite suggests a burgeoning reputation for perimeter shooting prowess that has quickly garnered attention from oddsmakers and analysts alike. Rookies often carry an element of unpredictability, which can be both a challenge and an advantage in the contest format.

Devin Booker, a previous champion, brings a blend of experience and consistency. His smooth shooting stroke and ability to get hot quickly make him a perpetual threat in this event. Similarly, Donovan Mitchell, Tyrese Maxey, and Jamal Murray are known for their high-volume, high-efficiency shooting, often delivering crucial baskets from long range in high-stakes regular-season and playoff games. Their ability to translate that pressure to a contest setting will be key.

Norman Powell’s connection to Los Angeles and the Intuit Dome as a former Clipper adds an intriguing narrative. While "home court advantage" in a shooting contest might seem minimal, familiarity with the arena’s sightlines and atmosphere could provide a psychological edge. Bobby Portis, often celebrated for his energetic play and rebounding, has quietly developed into a reliable stretch-four. His league-leading three-point percentage among the field participants underscores his refined shooting touch, making him a dark horse capable of surprising the field.

Barner’s comprehensive analysis extends beyond simply identifying who to fade. He has meticulously studied the entire 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest lineup from every angle and believes the eventual winner will deliver a "historic" performance. His full pick and detailed predictions are exclusively available to SportsLine subscribers, offering a deep dive into the statistics and contextual factors that will determine the champion. For those looking to make informed decisions on this highly anticipated All-Star event, Barner’s proven track record makes his insights invaluable.

The 2026 NBA 3-Point Contest promises to be a showcase of skill, precision, and nerves under pressure. With a mix of seasoned champions, rising stars, and expert analysis guiding the betting landscape, fans and bettors alike await what could be a memorable night of long-range shooting in Los Angeles.

2026 NBA 3-Point Contest odds, field (via FanDuel)
Kon Knueppel +380
Damian Lillard +390
Devin Booker +550
Jamal Murray +600
Tyrese Maxey +600
Donovan Mitchell +650
Norman Powell +950
Bobby Portis +1700

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