Mitchell to replace Gordon in Slam Dunk Contest

Utah Jazz rookie Donovan Mitchell will replace the injured Aaron Gordon in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest on All-Star weekend, the league announced Monday.

Gordon, the 2016 runner-up, pulled out of the contest Monday due to a strained hip flexor.

Mitchell, who would've been in Los Angeles regardless to participate in the Skills Challenge and the Rising Stars game, had previously expressed disappointment at being left out of the signature All-Star Saturday event. The Dunk Contest invite means he'll be replaced by Sacramento Kings sophomore Buddy Hield in the Skills Challenge.

Mitchell is averaging 19.7 points and 3.5 assists, and was named Western Conference Rookie of the Month in December and January.