NEW YORK - Stephen Curry will defend his title in the 3-point contest, Zach LaVine will try for another dunk championship and some All-Star big men will compete for the Skills Challenge crown.
Sacramento's DeMarcus Cousins, New Orleans' Anthony Davis, Golden State's Draymond Green and Minnesota rookie Karl-Anthony Towns will take part in that event, which combines dribbling, passing and 3-point shooting and traditionally is made up of guards. Boston All-Star Isaiah Thomas, defending champion Patrick Beverley of Houston, the Lakers' Jordan Clarkson and CJ McCollum of Portland round out the field.
The competitors for the All-Star Saturday events in Toronto on Feb. 13 were announced Thursday by the NBA.
Curry set an event record last year with 27 points, including 13 straight made shots in the final round. Leading the league in 3-pointers this season, the MVP will face Golden State teammate Klay Thompson, All-Stars Kyle Lowry of Toronto, James Harden of Houston and Chris Bosh of Miami, plus Phoenix rookie Devin Booker, Milwaukee's Khris Middleton and the Clippers' J.J. Redick.
LaVine will be challenged by Detroit All-Star Andre Drummond, Denver's Will Barton and Orlando's Aaron Gordon.