Shaquille O'Neal suggested that Kobe Bryant participate in the slam dunk contest during next month's All-Star weekend along with LeBron James and Vince Carter.

Bryant laughed off the idea on Thursday night before the Lakers took on O'Neal's Cavaliers.

James said during last year's event that he would take part in the 2010 contest. Kobe says players should not feel a responsibility toward entering the contest as a way of giving back to the league.

"Responsibility? No," Bryant said. "People want to see it, so it's good to do it at least one time in your career. It's fun."