Welcome to the list of the best small forwards in NBA history. We will dive into the NBA’s most versatile position and see which players brought much prestige and success.
The small forward position has seen some of the greatest players in NBA history. Small forwards are known for their versatility, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. This is why most NBA picks suggest small forwards as great options for their stats production in games. From all-around superstars to iconic leaders, the best small forwards in NBA history left a lasting impact on the game.
Whether it’s their championships, accolades, or sheer talent, these players have cemented their place among the league’s elite. Let’s take a closer look at the top 10 small forwards who have defined the position and left lasting legacies.
10. Dominique Wilkins
Career Stats: 24.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 2.5 APG; 46.1 FG%, 31.9 FG3%, 81.1 FT%
Notable Achievements: 9x NBA All-Star, 8x All-NBA selections
“The Human Highlight Film” starts off the list of the best small forwards in NBA history. Dominique Wilkins was one of the most dynamic scorers of his era, especially during his time with the Atlanta Hawks.
He averaged 24.8 points per game over his career and led the league in scoring during the 1985-1986 season. He was known for his explosive athleticism and high-flying dunks. Wilkins could score from anywhere on the floor – he could drive towards the rim, drain mid-range jumpers and outside shots.
His ferocious, acrobatic dunks earned him numerous highlights, and he was a fan favorite for his electrifying play. Wilkins’ windmill dunks were so iconic that he competed in multiple NBA Slam Dunk Contests, where he won in 1990.
Wilkins played 15 seasons in the NBA, mainly with the Atlanta Hawks, and remained a consistent scorer throughout his career. He made 9 All-Star appearances and was named to 6 All-NBA teams, showcasing his excellence over a long period of time.
Moreover, Wilkins helped elevate the Atlanta Hawks to prominence in the 1980s, leading them to multiple playoff appearances. While his teams never won an NBA title, Wilkins carried his team offensively, and kept them competitive. This solidified his status as one of the best small forwards of his era.
9. Elgin Baylor
Career Stats: 27.4 PPG, 13.5 RPG, 4.3 APG; 43.1 FG%, N/A FG3%, 78.0 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1958-59), 11x NBA All-Star, 10x All-NBA selections
Elgin Baylor was one of the first players to truly redefine the small forward position. His combination of scoring, athleticism, and versatility made him ahead of his time. In an era where the NBA was dominated by big men, Baylor’s set a new standard for future small forwards.
Baylor was an elite scorer, averaging 27.4 points per game over his career. He was known for his unique style of play, which featured an unorthodox yet effective jump shot. Baylor also possessed incredible leaping ability, and creative finishing around the basket. At the time of his retirement, Baylor was the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
As the centerpiece of the Lakers’ offense in the 1960s, Baylor led them to multiple NBA Finals appearances. He consistently delivered in the postseason, with some of his most memorable games coming in the Finals. In one instance, Baylor showcased his scoring prowess with 61 points in a playoff game against the Boston Celtics.
Despite injuries, Baylor played for 14 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, maintaining a high level of performance throughout. His ability to stay relevant and dominate even in his later years is a testament to his skill and dedication. That said, Baylor retired in 1972, and wasn’t part of the Lakers team that won the title.
Although he never won a championship, his leadership and skill were pivotal in the franchise’s success during his tenure. His ability to carry the team made him one of the most important players in Lakers history.
8. Rick Barry
Career Stats: 24.8 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 4.9 APG; 45.6 FG%, 29.7 FG3%, 89.3 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion, 1x Finals MVP, 8x NBA All-Star, 4x ABA All-Star, 7x All-NBA selections, 4x All-ABA selections
The “Miami Greyhound” sits in eighth place of the best small forwards in NBA history. Rick Barry was an elite scorer and one of the most prolific small forwards of his era. He averaged 23.1 points per game over his career and was known for his scoring efficiently inside and outside. His scoring prowess made him a constant offensive threat and a key player on every team he played for.
Barry is widely recognized for popularizing the underhand free-throw technique, which he used to great success. He is one of the most accurate free-throw shooters in NBA history with a career free-throw percentage of 89.3%. His underhanded style helped him achieve remarkable consistency, especially in crunch time, where free throws are often crucial.
Moreover, Barry was a well-rounded player who could do much more than just score. He had exceptional basketball IQ and could pass, rebound, and defend effectively. He averaged 6.5 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game for his career, showcasing his all-around contributions. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways made him one of the most complete small forwards in NBA history.
Barry led the Golden State Warriors to an NBA championship in 1975, where he was named Finals MVP. This victory is a key highlight of his career and solidified his place among the greats. He was instrumental in the Warriors’ dominance during the Finals, averaging 29.5 points per game. His leadership played a huge role in the team’s success.
7. Kawhi Leonard
Career Stats: 20.0 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 3.0 APG; 49.8 FG%, 39.1 FG3%, 85.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 2x Defensive Player of the Year, 6x All-Star, 15x All-NBA selections
*still active
Kawhi Leonard lands on number 7 on the list. “The Klaw” possesses a unique combination of skills, accomplishments, and impact on both ends of the floor.
His ability to dominate both offensively and defensively sets him apart. On defense, he is known for his ability to shut down top opponents, create turnovers, and disrupt offenses. Leonard’s lockdown defense earned him two NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards (2015, 2016).
Offensively, he is a highly efficient scorer, capable of scoring from anywhere on the floor. Leonard can slash into the basket, and sink mid-range jumpers and three-pointers at high clips and percentages. During his prime, Leonard was a go-to player for NBA betting sites, thanks to his consistency.
Leonard has won two NBA championships, with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014 and the Toronto Raptors in 2019. His leadership and clutch performances in the postseason were pivotal to both teams’ success.
Kawhi led the Raptors to their first-ever NBA title and won Finals MVP for his exceptional performance throughout the series. His playoffs run includes his iconic game-winning shot in the Eastern Conference semifinals against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Leonard has been a consistently elite performer since entering the league in 2011. Despite some injury setbacks, he has maintained a high level of play with the Spurs, Raptors, and Los Angeles Clippers. His ability to maintain his efficient play, especially during the postseason, contributed to his legacy as one of the best.
6. Scottie Pippen
Career Stats: 16.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 5.2 APG; 47.3 FG%, 32.6 FG3%, 70.4 FT%
Notable Achievements: 6x NBA Champion, 7x All-Star, 17x All-NBA selections
Scottie Pippen rounds up the sixth spot of the best small forwards in NBA history. Pippen was one of the best two-way small forwards during the 90s, highlighted by his unmatched defense and versatility. Moreover, he was a critical piece in the Chicago Bulls’ dominance in the 1990s.
Pippen’s impact on both ends of the floor made him a perfect complement to Michael Jordan during their Bulls run. He could guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and lock down the opposing team’s best player, while offering crucial offense.
He was a 10-time NBA All-Defensive Team selection, with 8 First Team nods, showcasing consistent excellence on the defensive end. Pippen’s ability to guard multiple positions, from point guards to power forwards, made him a match-up nightmare. He would frazzle the opposition with his combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ.
While Pippen’s individual stats are impressive, his true value often came from his impact on the game beyond box scores. He was the ultimate team player who sacrificed personal glory for the success of the team. With 6 championships under his belt, Scottie Pippen is truly an elite-level small forward the NBA has ever seen.
5. John Havlicek
Career Stats: 20.8 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 4.8 APG; 43.9 FG%, N/A FG3%, 81.5 FT%
Notable Achievements: 8x NBA Champion, 1x Finals MVP, 13x All-Star, 20x All-NBA selections
John Havlicek lands fifth on the best small forwards in NBA history list. “Hondo” had an exceptional all-around game, and greatly contributed to his team’s success, leaving a lasting impact on the NBA.
As far as championship wins goes, Havlicek is the winningest small forward. He has won 8 NBA championships with the Boston Celtics (1963, 1964, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976, 1981). His role in these championships was critical, as he was a consistent and reliable performer when on the court.
Havlicek was a highly versatile player, capable of impacting the game in multiple ways. He was known for his scoring, playmaking, and defense. He was also known for his ability to guard multiple positions, which made him a key defensive asset.
Havlicek won the NBA Finals MVP in 1974, as a testament to his pivotal role in the Celtics’ success. He averaged 26.6 points per game during the Finals that year, leading the Celtics to the championship. His performance in the Finals showcased his clutchness the biggest moments, further cementing his legacy as one of the best.
4. Julius Erving
Career Stats: 24.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, 4.2 APG; 50.6 FG%, 29.8 FG3%, 77.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x ABA Champion, 1x NBA Champion, 3x ABA MVP, 2x Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 5x ABA All-Star, 11x NBA All-Star, 7x All-ABA selections, 7x All-NBA selections. 1x ABA Slam Dunk Champion, 2x NBA Slam Dunk Champion
“Dr. J” was one of the first players to bring a level of flair and creativity to the game. Erving dazzled on the court with his high-flying dunks and acrobatic moves. His ability to glide through the air set a new standard for athleticism in basketball, inspiring future generations of players.
Dr. J was a prolific scorer, averaging over 20 points per game during his career. He could score in multiple ways—from driving to the basket, hitting mid-range jump shots, or finishing on fast breaks. His versatility in scoring made him a constant offensive threat.
Erving led the Philadelphia 76ers to an NBA championship in 1983, which was a key moment in his career. He also won two championships in the ABA (American Basketball Association) before the NBA-ABA merger. His championship with the 76ers was particularly significant as it helped solidify his legacy as a winner.
Dr. J was a 4-time NBA MVP (3-time ABA MVP and 1-time NBA MVP) and was selected to 16 All-Star teams (5 ABA, 11 NBA), reflecting his consistency and elite status throughout his career.
Erving transcended basketball and became a cultural icon. His persona, on and off the court, made him one of the most recognizable athletes of his era. He was known for his professionalism and charisma, which helped elevate the profile of the NBA during its early years.
3. Kevin Durant
Career Stats: 27.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 4.4 APG; 50.2 FG%, 38.9 FG3%, 88.2 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 1x MVP, 15x All-Star, 13x All-NBA selections
*still active
Kevin Durant gets the third spot on the list of the best small forwards in NBA history. “The Slim Reaper” is synonymous with instant offense in the small forward position. At 6’10”, with a wingspan of 7’5″, Durant has an incredibly rare combination of height, skill, and agility.
His smooth shooting stroke allows him to score from anywhere on the floor. Durant can drain mid-range jump shots, sink three-pointers from beyond the arc, or drive to the basket with relative ease. Durant’s efficient scoring is one of the primary reasons he is regarded as one of the best.
Durant won two NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors in 2017 and 2018. He also got Finals MVP honors in both of those series against LeBron and the Cavaliers. His performances in the Finals were stellar, including key shots and dominant all-around play, solidifying his legacy as a winner.
Durant has maintained a high level of play throughout his career, even as he has dealt with injuries. His ability as an efficient offensive threat for multiple years even after major injuries speaks to his resilience and skill. Most NBA betting lines suggest placing money on the “Easy Money Sniper”,
2. Larry Bird
Career Stats: 24.3 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 6.3 APG; 49.6 FG%, 37.6 FG3%, 88.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: 3x NBA Champion, 2x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 14x All-NBA selections
“Larry Legend” sits in second place on the best NBA small forwards list. Bird wasn’t a great athlete, but he was an incredibly skilled basketball player. While he wasn’t the most physically gifted player, his basketball IQ, shooting, passing, and rebounding made him a force.
Bird was known for his shooting range, his clutch shots from deep, and his accuracy from the free-throw line. He was also an elite passer and ball handler for a forward, making him a true triple-threat player. Bird wasn’t just a scorer; he could rebound, create plays, and defend during his prime. He averaged over 10 rebounds per game in several seasons, pressuring opponents to drain shots.
Bird was the engine for the Celtics during the 1980s where they won three NBA championships (1981, 1984, and 1986). His clutch performances and leadership played a crucial role in their championship runs.
Additionally, Bird was a three-time NBA MVP (1984, 1985, 1986), which cements his dominance during his peak years. Bird was also a 12-time NBA All-Star, showing his consistency as one of the league’s top players year after year.
Larry Bird’s impact extends beyond his playing career. He’s regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, greatly influencing the game and the small forward position.
1. LeBron James
Career Stats: 27.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.4 APG; 50.7 FG%, 35.0 FG3%, 73.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 4x NBA Champion, 4x Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (2003-04), 21x All-Star, 28x All-NBA selections, currently holds the record for most points scored overall (41924)
*still active
LeBron James, “The King” sits in first place on the best small forwards in NBA history. His exceptional combination of skills, athleticism, longevity, and achievements set him apart as one of the best players in basketball.
He’s a scorer, playmaker, rebounder, and defender—often excelling in multiple categories simultaneously. James’ basketball IQ is off the charts, allowing him to read and understand the game’s flow and adjust accordingly.
Moreover, LeBron can play and defend multiple positions, from point guard to power forward, which adds to his versatility. Whenever he’s on the court, James is a sure-fire NBA player props candidate.
James’ ability to maintain a high level of performance well into his 40s is extraordinary. LeBron has managed to play at an elite level for over 2 decades, even outpacing players in their 30s. He’s an NBA All-Star for nearly every season and played at an MVP-caliber level for the majority of his career.
LeBron has won 4 NBA championships (2012, 2013, 2016, 2020) with three different teams ( Heat, Cavaliers, Lakers). He has also been named Finals MVP in all four of those championship seasons.
His performance in the 2016 NBA Finals is one of the greatest individual playoff performances ever. Down 3-1, LeBron led the Cleveland Cavaliers to a historic comeback against the Golden State Warriors. He punctuated the series with his iconic block on Andre Iguodala in Game 7.
With his unparalleled combination of skill, versatility, athleticism, leadership, and success, LeBron is one of the greatest players in history.