Ranking of the Small Forwards in NBA history considers a combination of peak performance and career value. The following list highlights the best small forwards in NBA history, based on their achievements, skills, and impact on the game. Here are the top 10 small forwards in NBA history, as ranked by ESPN.
List of Best Small Forwards in NBA History
10. James Worthy
James Worthy was a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers during the “Showtime” era, running the floor with speed and finishing in the low post. Known for his fast breaks, Worthy was pivotal to the Lakers’ championships and was awarded Finals MVP in 1988. His quick moves and scoring ability made him a prominent small forward in NBA history.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 17.6 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 5.1 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 3.0 APG |
| Field Goal % | 52.1% |
| Championships | 3 |
9. Rick Barry
Rick Barry dominated offensively and was a versatile small forward in NBA, leading the NBA in scoring in the 1966-67 season. He was a key factor in the Warriors’ 1975 championship. Barry’s unique underhanded free throw style and his scoring made him a crucial player in NBA history.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 23.2 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 6.5 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 5.1 APG |
| Steals per Game | 2.0 SPG |
| Championships | 1 |
8. John Havlicek
John Havlicek’s consistency helped the Boston Celtics win eight championships. His diverse contributions—scoring, rebounding, and playmaking—made him a key small forward in NBA history. Havlicek’s work ethic and clutch performances in crucial moments helped cement his place as one of the best.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 20.8 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 6.3 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 4.8 APG |
| Field Goal % | 43.9% |
| Championships | 8 |
7. Scottie Pippen
Scottie Pippen was known for his elite defense and all-around game. As Michael Jordan’s complement, he played a key role in the Chicago Bulls’ six championships. His playmaking ability and defense were a hallmark of his success as one of the greatest small forwards in NBA.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 16.1 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 6.4 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 5.2 APG |
| Steals per Game | 2.0 SPG |
| Championships | 6 |
6. Elgin Baylor
Elgin Baylor was a trailblazer, an incredible high-flying small forward in NBA, who excelled in both scoring and rebounding. Despite never winning a championship, Baylor’s contributions in the NBA were revolutionary, helping to shape the modern small forward in NBA role with his athleticism and scoring.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 27.4 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 13.5 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 4.3 APG |
| Field Goal % | 43.1% |
| Championships | 0 |
5. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant’s scoring ability and versatility have made him one of the most dominant small forwards in NBA history. Durant’s height and guard-like skills make him nearly impossible to defend. His two championships and multiple scoring titles cement him as one of the best to ever play the position.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 27.3 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 6.9 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 3.6 APG |
| Field Goal % | 48.2% |
| Championships | 2 |
4. Julius Erving (Dr. J)
Dr. J is remembered for revolutionizing the game with his acrobatic dunks and high-flying play. As one of the most iconic small forwards in NBA, he led the Philadelphia 76ers to an NBA championship in 1983 and helped shape the evolution of the position. His creativity and flair on the court were key to his success.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 24.2 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 8.5 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 4.2 APG |
| Field Goal % | 50.6% |
| Championships | 1 |
3. Larry Bird
Larry Bird’s all-around game and leadership led the Boston Celtics to three championships. Known for his shooting, playmaking, and basketball IQ, Bird is regarded as one of the most complete small forwards in NBA history. His clutch performances in key moments made him a true legend of the game.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 24.3 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 10.0 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 6.3 APG |
| Field Goal % | 49.6% |
| Championships | 3 |
2. LeBron James
LeBron James is arguably the most complete player in NBA history, with the size, skill, and basketball IQ to excel in nearly every aspect of the game. LeBron’s versatility across multiple positions and his leadership have made him a cornerstone of the small forward in NBA position. His two championships are a testament to his impact.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 27.3 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 7.1 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 6.9 APG |
| Field Goal % | 49.6% |
| Championships | 2 |
1. Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan is widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history. His scoring ability, competitiveness, and leadership transformed the small forward in NBA position. Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six championships, and his influence on the game remains unmatched. His clutch performances and dominance in every facet of the game solidified his status as the best small forward in NBA.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 30.1 PPG |
| Rebounds per Game | 6.2 RPG |
| Assists per Game | 5.3 APG |
| Field Goal % | 49.7% |
| Championships | 6 |
This ranking of the top 10 small forwards in NBA highlights their unique skills and contributions to the game. From Michael Jordan’s dominance to LeBron James’ versatility, these players have shaped the evolution of the small forward in NBA and left a lasting legacy on the sport.
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