DUNK CONTEST: Portland G Rudy Fernandez beat out two fellow rookies in an online vote and will round out the field for the slam dunk contest at All-Star weekend. The native of Spain will become the first international player to appear in the contest. Defending champion Dwight Howard (Magic), 2006 winner Nate Robinson (Knicks) and Memphis F Rudy Gay already were chosen for the field.
76ers: F Elton Brand's long-awaited return will be on hold. Coach Tony DiLeo said Brand most likely will play Saturday against the Knicks. 
