The NBA announced the six participants expected to take part in the slam dunk contest next week.

It's a good one.

For the first time in recent years the dunk contest will feature actual NBA all-stars on all-star weekend.

In fact, five of the six participants are currently in the playoff picture if they started today.

ESPN tweeted out the six players participating in the dunk contest an they are as follows:

1. Paul George

2. John Wall

3. Damian Lillard

4. Terrence Ross

5. Harrison Barnes

6. Ben McLemore

George, Wall and Lillard will also be participating in Sundays festivities.

Both George and Lillard are quickly developing in the leagues youngest stars leading their respective teams to the top of the NBA standings.

Wall, a former first overall pick has his Wizards in the playoff picture for the Eastern Conference.

Terrence Ross returns to the field defending his championship after winning last year as a rookie.

NBA All-Star weekend tips off next weekend in New Orleans.

Check out some in-game dunks below:

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