Overview
- After the 142–111 win over the Wizards, James told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin there is “no chance” he will enter the Slam Dunk Contest.
- Lakers coach JJ Redick jokingly said the league would try to recruit James, praising the veteran’s bounce and “left bionic leg.”
- James finished the game with 20 points, six assists and three rebounds, punctuating the blowout with several highlight dunks.
- Reporting frames his refusal within his 23rd season and ongoing management of right‑sided sciatica, emphasizing availability over exhibitions.
- The dunk contest is expected to proceed without him, with Jaxson Hayes and Carter Bryant reported as invitees and Mac McClung not participating.