As far as dominating both ends of the court, the best power forwards in NBA history have set the bar. These players are known for their ability to score, rebound, defend, and bring energy to every game. It goes without saying that such players are no-brainers for NBA picks since they impact the game for their teams.
That said, let’s take a closer look at the 10 best power forwards in NBA history. From their standout performances and unique contributions to the game, here are the best players who played power forward.
10. Charles Barkley
Career Stats: 22.1 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 3.9 APG; 54.1 FG%, 26.6 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x MVP, 11x NBA All-Star, 12x All-NBA selections
Charles Barkley kicks off the list of the best power forwards in NBA history. Barkley is known for his incredible versatility, dominant rebounding, unique skill set, and impactful leadership throughout his career.
“The Round Mound of Rebound” was one of the most dynamic offensive players of his era. Despite standing at 6’6″, he played power forward and used his incredible strength, quickness, and basketball IQ to outwork defenders. Moreover, Barkley had a wide variety of offensive moves he utilizes to score at will. This includes a lethal mid-range jumper, powerful post moves, and the ability to finish at the rim. His signature was his scoring in transition; his surprising speed and agility lets him charge towards the basket.
He averaged 22.1 points per game over his career, but his true offensive value came from his all-around scoring ability. His ability to play both inside and outside, and to create offense for himself made him a matchup nightmare. If NBA betting lines were a thing back then, Barkley would be a go-to player for points and efficiency.
Barkley’s individual accolades speak for themselves. He won the 1993 NBA MVP, leading the Phoenix Suns to a league-best 62-20 record, and an NBA Finals appearance. His MVP season was one of the best individual performances of the 1990s. Barkley averaged 25.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, powering the Suns to the Finals.
Apart from his impressive individual stats and accomplishments, the only knock on him is that he didn’t win a championship.
9. Karl Malone
Career Stats: 25.0 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.6 APG; 51.6 FG%, 27.4 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 2x MVP, 14x NBA All-Star, 19x All-NBA selections
“The Mail Man” lands at ninth place of the best power forwards in NBA history list. His combination of scoring, rebounding, durability, and consistency throughout his career speak volumes of his impact in the NBA.
Malone ranks third on the NBA’s all-time scoring list, behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He scored over 36,000 points during his career, an achievement demonstrating his ability to consistently score for his team. Malone averaged 25 points per game over his 19-season career, and his scoring was a driving force behind his success.
“The Mail Man” was also an outstanding rebounder, finishing his career with over 14,000 rebounds. He averaged 10.1 rebounds per game over his career, making him one of the top rebounders during his prime. Moreover, his ability to contribute on both ends of the court, grabbing key rebounds, made him invaluable to his teams.
Arguably, Malone’s durability and longevity is also what he’s known for, having played 19 seasons in the NBA. He missed a few games during his career, which exemplifies his conditioning and consistent high level of play. Furthermore, Malone’s consistency in scoring and rebounding made him a reliable force on the court for nearly two decades.
Similar to Barkley, Malone dips down the lower rungs of this list since he didn’t win any championships.
8. Elvin Hayes
Career Stats: 21.0 PPG, 12.5 RPG, 1.8 APG; 45.2 FG%, 14.7 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 12x NBA Allstar, 9x All-NBA selections
Elvin Hayes lands eighth on the best power forwards in NBA history list. “The Big E” was known for his dominant scoring, rebounding, and overall impact on the game during his career.
Hayes was an elite scorer, finishing his career with over 27,000 points. He averaged 21 points per game over his 16-year career, making him a consistent offensive force. His scoring ability, especially in the post, was a significant reason for his success.
Hayes was also known for his rebounding prowess, averaging 12.5 rebounds per game for his career. He was a dominant presence on the boards, which was pivotal to his game and his teams’ success. Moreover, Hayes’ control on both ends of the glass made him one of the best power forwards in that regard.
7. Bob Pettit
Career Stats: 26.4 PPG, 16.2 RPG, 3.0 APG; 43.6 FG%, N/A FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 2x MVP, 11x NBA All-Star, 11x All-NBA selections
Bob Pettit is seventh on the best power forwards in NBA history list. His groundbreaking skill set, dominant performances, and lasting legacy in the early years of the NBA.
Pettit was one of the first players to redefine the power forward position, especially during the 1950s. His skill set was ahead of his time. Pettit was a versatile big man who could score from anywhere on the floor, including the post and mid-range. Moreover, Pettit’s ability to stretch the floor was exceptional for his era.
“Big Blue” averaged over 20 points per game throughout his career. He won the NBA’s scoring title in 1956 and was known for his ability to put up big numbers consistently. Pettit averaged 26.4 points per game during his best season (1959-1960), which was remarkable for the era.
He was also a strong rebounder for his position, averaging 16.2 rebounds per game in the 1955-56 season. Pettit was highly effective on the boards, contributing to his team’s success both offensively and defensively. His rebounding and ability to create second-chance opportunities were critical to his impact on the game.
6. Kevin McHale
Career Stats: 17.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 1.7 APG; 55.4 FG%, 26.1 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 2x Sixth Man of the Year, 7x NBA All-Star, 8x All-NBA selections
Kevin McHale lands in sixth place on the best power forwards in NBA history list. He is known for his combination of skill, versatility, and basketball IQ that led to multiple championship wins.
McHale is often considered one of the best low-post players in NBA history. His array of moves, including an impeccable up-and-under, spinning moves, and jump hooks, made him impossible to defend down low. He was exceptional at scoring in the post and could finish with either hand, making him a match-up nightmare.
McHale played for the Boston Celtics during one of their most successful periods during the 80s. He teamed up with Larry Bird and Robert Parish, winning three NBA championships (1981, 1984, and 1986). This led him to perform in clutch moments and contribute to those championship teams when they needed it most.
Moreover, McHale’s understanding of the game and ability to read situations on the court were impressive. His leadership and ability to adapt to different playing styles allowed him to excel in multiple systems alongside Bird. McHale wasn’t just a great player; he was also known for being a student of the game.
5. Dennis Rodman
Career Stats: 7.3 PPG, 13.1 RPG, 1.8 APG; 52.1 FG%, 23.1 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 2x Defensive Player of the Year, 2x NBA All-Star, 10x All-NBA selections
“The Worm” pops up in the top 5 on our best power forwards in NBA history list. Dennis Rodman is one of the most controversial players to step foot in the hardwood. Unlike other players listed here, Rodman specialized in rebounding, tenacious defense, and antagonizing his opponents.
Rodman led the league in rebounds per game for seven consecutive seasons and was relentless at pursuing the basketball. His ability to read the trajectory of missed shots, his timing, and his tenacity made him a rebounding machine. Rodman finished his career with 13.1 rebounds per game, despite being 6’7″, which is small for a power forward.
Moreover, Rodman was an elite defender, known for his ability to guard multiple positions. His quickness, agility, and mental focus allowed him to shut down bigger players. Rodman was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player, regardless of position, and he relished in the assignment. For bettors who wanted to get a leg up on rebounds on their NBA player props, Rodman was a no-brainer.
He was a two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1991), and he made the All-Defensive First Team seven times. His lock-down defense and elite help defense was a major factor in his teams’ success with the Pistons and Bulls.
Rodman’s influence went beyond stats; he often did the dirty work that most players didn’t want to do. This included boxing out, setting screens, diving for loose balls, and, most importantly, grabbing offensive and defensive rebounds. His effort in these areas allowed his teams to control possession of the ball during key stops in games.
4. Kevin Garnett
Career Stats: 17.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 3.7 APG; 49.7 FG%, 27.5 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x MVP, 1x Defensive Player of the Year, 15x NBA All-Star, 22x All-NBA selections
Kevin Garnett sits at fourth place on the best power forwards in NBA history list. Garnett is known for his unique skillset, relentless work ethic, leadership, and impact on both ends of the court.
During his time in Minnesota, Garnett was an incredibly versatile scorer, able to score from virtually anywhere on the court. He had a reliable mid-range jumper, which made him a tough matchup for defenders. “The Big Ticket” also had a veritable arsenal of offensive moves. For instance, Garnett possessed solid post moves, and was a good slasher for an almost 7 feet tall player.
These skills made him one of the most versatile power forwards offensively, even when he got to Boston. Garnett averaged 17.8 points per game over his career and was a key offensive weapon for his teams. In his time with the Timberwolves, Garnett won regular season MVP honors in 2003-04.
When he got traded to Boston, Garnett ramped up his game-changing defense. He was already defensively versatile in Minnesota, but had to double down during his time with the Celtics. His ability to guard multiple positions — from forwards to centers — was a hallmark of his career.
Garnett was named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2008 and earned numerous All-Defensive Team selections. His presence in the paint as a shot-blocker, along with his ability to disrupt passing lanes, made him a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Moreover, Garnett’s intensity and leadership were key factors that set him apart from other players. He was the emotional leader of every team he played for, particularly during his time with the Boston Celtics. Garnett’s leadership played a crucial role in the Celtics’ 2008 NBA Championship win. Along with Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, formed the “Big Three” that led the Celtics to the title.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Career Stats: 23.8 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 4.9 APG; 55.0 FG%, 28.4 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 1x Defensive Player of the Year, 1x Most Improved Player, 9x NBA All-Star, 17x All-NBA selections
*Still Active
“The Greek Freak” is third on our list of the best power forwards in NBA history. Giannis combines his athleticism and versatility to dominate on both ends of the court. While his career is still ongoing, Giannis’ already incredible achievements place him among the elite power forwards in NBA history.
Standing at 6’11” with a wingspan of 7’3″, Giannis possesses the physical attributes of a taller player. However, Giannis has the agility, speed, and ball-handling ability of a guard. His combination of height, length, and speed allows him to dominate in transition.
Most of his points come from barreling down the lane and finishing through contact. Meanwhile, on the defensive end, he can more than hold his own at an elite level. His physical attributes make him nearly impossible to contain both offensively and defensively.
Giannis is a relentless rebounder, consistently ranking among the league leaders in rebounds. His size, athleticism, and motor allow him to dominate the glass, both offensively and defensively.
Moreover, his ability to secure boards to immediately push the ball up the court in transition is a major weapon. This tactic often leads to easy fast-break points for his team, the Milwaukee Bucks. Giannis’ combination of rebounding and transition play makes him incredibly valuable in any type of game situation. NBA betting sites always suggest betting on Giannis to get great numbers any time he’s on the floor.
Giannis has already earned two NBA MVP awards (2019, 2020) and led the Milwaukee Bucks to the 2021 NBA Championship. He was named Finals MVP after a legendary performance in Game 6, culminating with a monstrous 50-point performance. His spectacular Finals clinching game is one of the most iconic moments in recent NBA history.
2. Dirk Nowitzki
Career Stats: 20.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.4 APG; 47.1 FG%, 38.0 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 14x NBA All-Star, 12x All-NBA selections
Dirk Nowitzki sits at second place on our list of the best power forwards in NBA history. Nowitzki’s unique skill set, longevity, and impact on the game is widely regarded in transforming the power forward position.
Before Dirk, the power forward position was primarily known for physicality, post-ups, and rebounding. Dirk, however, redefined what a power forward could be by bringing a highly skilled perimeter game to the position.
His shooting from the outside, and his signature one-legged fadeaway jump shot, made him an incredibly difficult matchup for defenders. He demonstrated that a power forward didn’t have to rely solely on the paint to score. Dirk illustrated that a big man could thrive as a stretch shooter who shot at an elite level.
Moreover, his ability to hit mid-range jump shots and three-pointers fundamentally changed the way teams viewed big men. Dirk’s shooting and range opened the door for future big men to become more perimeter-oriented players that are offensive threats.
Dirk was one of the most prolific and consistent scorers in NBA history. He ranks in the top 10 all-time for career points, having scored over 31,000 points during his 21-season career. During his prime years, Dirk averaged over 25 points per game in multiple seasons for the Dallas Mavericks.
He was a 14-time All-Star and made All-NBA Teams 12 times over the course of his career. Dirk was also named NBA MVP in 2007, due to his stellar performance and amazing run with the Mavericks.
1. Tim Duncan
Career Stats: 19.0 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 3.0 APG; 50.6 FG%, 50.6 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 1x Rookie of the Year, 15x NBA All-Star, 31x All-NBA selections
“The Big Fundamental” gets the top spot on the best power forwards in NBA of all time list. Tim Duncan epitomizes the power forward position as the go-to player who impacted the game while winning championships.
One of the primary reasons Tim Duncan is the best power forward of all time is his championship success. Duncan led the Spurs to five NBA titles (1999, 2003, 2005, 2007, and 2014), showcasing his skill and level-headedness. His leadership, both on and off the court, played a significant role in the Spurs’ sustained success throughout his career. Duncan’s performance in the postseason was spectacular, proving himself a clutch player in the biggest moments time and time again.
Tim Duncan was arguably the best defensive power forward in NBA history. He was known for his shot-blocking ability, rebounding, and elite defensive positioning. His timing and understanding of the game allowed him to be a dominant force in the paint. Moreover, Duncan was named to 15 All-Defensive Teams during his career, including 8 First Team selections.
Moreover, Duncan was known for his fundamentally sound and efficient offensive game. He didn’t rely on athleticism or raw power; instead, he used his footwork, basketball IQ, and fundamentals to score. Duncan’s bank shot became one of the most iconic and reliable offensive weapons in NBA history. Moreover, his low-post game was elite, and he had the ability to score all over the perimeter.
Lastly, Duncan was a consistently efficient scorer during his career with the Spurs. He averaged 19 points per game over his career while shooting over 50% from the field. He was a remarkable passer for a big man, averaging 3.0 assists per game that often set up teammates. His ability to make the right decision when he has the ball was one of the hallmarks of his game.