NBA All-Star Game: 5 Predictions for the Foot Locker 3-Point Contest

With the All-Star lineups having been announced, the attention is now turning to the Slam Dunk Contest—and the 3-Point Contest is once again playing the role of forgotten little brother. Where the dunks just demonstrate athleticism, the raining three pointers show concrete basketball skills.

Here are some predictions on how the annual shootout will go.

The Field of Contestants

- James Jones: the defending champion

- Ray Allen

- Ryan Anderson

- Chris Paul

- Paul George

- Markieff Morris

Brandon Rush Will Not Be Invited

Despite sporting the best three-point percentage in the league, the Golden State shooting guard will not be one of the players to compete. However, a fellow Kansas alum will be...

Markieff Morris Will Make a Name for Himself

The rookie forward will go head-to-head with the defending champion Jones and the classic Ray Allen. Morris will continue his smooth shooting from his Kansas days, and push the more experienced contestants hard. He will get 20+ points and be a finalist.

Ryan Anderson Will Be Good, but Won't Last Long

The Magic forward leads the league in both threes made and attempted. Anderson will get an invite to the contest based solely on that volume.

He will be competitive at first, but will not be able to keep up with the pure shooters and will not make the final round.

Chris Paul Will Be a Surprise Contender

Already an excellent three point shooter, and great overall point guard, Paul will be one of the three players advancing to the final round. He will beat out Paul George for the third spot in a close one, and battle Ray Allen and Morris for the trophy.

The Rookie Will Win It

First Round

Allen- 23 points

Morris- 21 points

Paul- 20 points

George- 19 points

Jones- 17 points

Anderson- 16 points

Final Round

Morris- 25 points

Allen- 22 points

Paul- 21 points

The rookie will tie the scoring record with 25 points and become the 2012 3-Point Contest champion.