The Fierce Five: NBA’s Top 5 Small Forwards

Small forwards in recent years have evolved from three-and-D type players into all around playmakers. Most small forwards in the present day NBA can rebound, pass and score, which makes it the most dynamic position in the NBA. With all these responsibilities, only the best are able to make a name for themselves at this position. It’s time to look at the five best small forwards in the NBA.

1. LeBron James

LeBron does it all, and he does it all better than any other player; not only at his position but in the entire NBA. James is still the King, but has some stiff competition gaining ground on their way to the crown.

2. Kevin Durant

For a long time, Durant has been the heir apparent to King James’ throne. Durant is the best scoring small forward in the game, and also can do damage on the boards. For the 2015-16 season he is averaging a remarkable 27.0 points, 7.9 rebounds and 4.6 assists.

3. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi doesn’t have the scoring prowess that the top 2 players on this list share, but what he lacks in scoring, he makes up for defensively. The reigning defensive player of the year has shown the ability to put any player (including the two listed above) on lockdown. At just 24 years of age, Kawhi is the youngest player on this list.

Head over to page 2 to check out the rest of the list.

4. Paul George

Remember when Paul George and the Indiana Pacers were on the verge of becoming an elite NBA team? It seems like decades ago, but when Paul George had the gruesome injury during a USA team practice it all changed. After a year off, and some time to shake off the rust, it seems as if Paul George is ready to make is climb back to the top. In the 2015-16 season, George has nearly returned to form and is averaging a respectable 23.6 points, 3.8 assists and 7.2 rebounds.

5. Carmelo Anthony

Melo does not get as much attention as he deserves playing for the bottom-dwelling Knicks. That doesn’t change the fact that he is one of the great scorers in the history of the game. Now 31, Melo’s heading towards a decline in his career and will more than likely go into the history books as one of the best players of all time who could never win a championship ring.

This list was full of young studs and future Hall of Famers. Small forward is arguably the most talented position in the league. MVP’s, championship rings and scoring titles, these players have it all. But with young stars like Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker on the come-up, this list is bound to look different in the very near future.

–Michael Hersey