10 Best NBA Small Forwards Based On What We Have Seen So Far

Statistics In 2024-25: 28.4 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 3.0 TOV, 45.4% FG, 37.4% 3-PT FG, 80.2% FT

Win-Loss Record: 17-4

Jayson Tatum has taken another leap since winning the NBA championship last year, cementing himself as the premier small forward in the NBA. His 28.4 PPG stands as a testament to his ability to score at all three levels, and his improved playmaking (5.6 APG) showcases his growing understanding of how to exploit defenses. 

Tatum’s leadership has also been on full display, as he has guided the Celtics to the second seed in the East while consistently delivering in an all-around sense. His defense remains underrated, with his versatility allowing Boston to seamlessly switch on pick-and-rolls.

What makes Tatum truly special this season is his command over every facet of the game. His 37.4% shooting from deep adds another layer to Boston’s already potent offense. With the Celtics near the top of the standings, Tatum’s consistency and dominance have firmly placed him in the MVP conversation.

2. LeBron James

Statistics In 2024-25: 22.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, 9.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG, 4.0 TOV, 48.2% FG, 34.5% 3-PT FG, 74.7% FT

Win-Loss Record: 12-9

At 39 years old, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time. Averaging 9.1 assists per game, LeBron has fully embraced the role of a playmaker, orchestrating the Lakers’ offense with precision. While his scoring is down slightly, he picks his spots effectively and remains lethal in transition even though his age is starting to show a little bit. 

What sets LeBron apart is his impact on winning. Even in his 22nd season, the Lakers’ success revolves around his ability to control the pace and make timely plays. Although the team has been inconsistent at times, LeBron’s ability to adapt his game and elevate others ensures they remain competitive. The question isn’t whether LeBron is still elite but rather how long he can sustain this level of excellence.

3. Jimmy Butler

Statistics In 2024-25: 18.9 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 1.4 TOV, 53.8% FG, 33.3% 3-PT FG, 78.8% FT

Win-Loss Record: 9-10

Jimmy Butler’s value lies far beyond the box score, even in a turbulent season for the team. While his scoring numbers may not jump off the page, Butler’s efficiency (53.8% FG) and ability to get to his spots make him one of the league's most reliable performers. 

His defensive acumen remains elite, as he takes on the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s best player nightly. With the Miami Heat having their struggles early, Butler’s leadership will be crucial in turning things around. Despite a subpar team record, Butler’s impact is undeniable. 

He has an uncanny ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most, whether in clutch moments or high-stakes games. Miami’s early-season struggles shouldn’t overshadow Butler’s importance to their success and in terms of impact, Butler is still top-three in his position. 

4. Brandon Ingram

Statistics In 2024-25: 22.9 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 3.9 TOV, 46.5% FG, 36.4% 3-PT FG, 83.0% FT

Win-Loss Record: 4-18

Brandon Ingram is an offensive juggernaut, but his brilliance has been overshadowed by the Pelicans’ disastrous start. Averaging 22.9 PPG with solid efficiency, Ingram has shown his capability as a primary scorer and secondary playmaker. However, his 3.9 turnovers per game highlight his need to refine his decision-making, especially as defenses zero in on him.

While Ingram’s individual numbers are impressive, his leadership and defensive presence have come into question. The Pelicans’ inability to capitalize on his talents has been frustrating, but it’s also a reflection of a roster lacking cohesion. Ingram must find ways to impact winning beyond scoring if New Orleans hopes to salvage its season.

5. DeMar DeRozan

Statistics In 2024-25: 22.5 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.6 BPG, 1.8 TOV, 50.2% FG, 27.0% 3-PT FG, 82.5% FT

Win-Loss Record: 10-12

DeMar DeRozan remains one of the most consistent mid-range scorers in NBA history. His 50.2% shooting from the field underscores his efficiency, and his ability to create his own shot is unmatched in today’s game. DeRozan has also improved as a facilitator and he has fit well with the Kings so far this season despite the team's underwhelming record. 

While his three-point shooting remains a limitation, DeRozan more than makes up for it with his craftiness and ability to get to the line. Defensively, he has stepped up this season, averaging 1.5 steals per game. Sacramento's success will hinge on his ability to lead by example and galvanize a roster that has struggled with inconsistency.

6. Franz Wagner

Statistics In 2024-25: 23.7 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 5.9 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG, 2.3 TOV, 46.4% FG, 33.3% 3-PT FG, 86.4% FT

Win-Loss Record: 15-8

Franz Wagner has quietly emerged as one of the most versatile forwards in the league. His scoring, playmaking, and defensive abilities make him a complete player, and his numbers this season reflect his growing influence. Wagner’s 1.8 SPG highlight his activity on defense, while his 5.9 APG point to his evolving court vision.

What makes Wagner stand out is his adaptability. He can excel both as a primary scorer and a complementary piece, making him invaluable for the Orlando Magic who are missing Paolo Banchero through injury. His three-point shooting has dipped slightly this year, but his free-throw shooting remains elite, ensuring his scoring efficiency isn’t compromised. Wagner is on the cusp of stardom, and his upward trajectory is exciting to watch.

7. OG Anunoby

Statistics In 2024-25: 17.4 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.0 BPG, 1.2 TOV, 49.1% FG, 37.9% 3-PT FG, 83.6% FT

Win-Loss Record: 13-8

OG Anunoby continues to solidify his reputation as one of the best two-way players in the league as a key part of the New York Knicks. His defensive prowess is unmatched among small forwards, with his 1.3 SPG and 1.0 BPG reflecting his ability to disrupt passing lanes and guard multiple positions. Offensively, Anunoby has taken another step forward, showcasing a refined scoring arsenal and improved confidence as a three-point shooter at nearly 38%.

What makes Anunoby invaluable is his ability to thrive in any role for the Knicks. Whether serving as a secondary scorer or locking down elite opponents, he excels in high-pressure situations. New York is still trying to mesh the new faces including Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges but Anunoby remains a beacon of consistency and deserves credit for that. 

8. Jalen Johnson

Statistics In 2024-25: 20.0 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 5.5 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.1 BPG, 3.2 TOV, 50.8% FG, 36.7% 3-PT FG, 74.6% FT

Win-Loss Record: 11-11

Jalen Johnson is enjoying a breakout season, quickly becoming one of the most exciting young forwards in the league with the Atlanta Hawks. His all-around game is remarkable, as evidenced by his near-double-double average and impressive 5.5 APG. Johnson’s athleticism and versatility make him a matchup nightmare, and his ability to push the pace in transition adds a dynamic element to Atlanta’s offense.

Defensively, Johnson has been equally impactful, using his length and quickness to contest shots and disrupt passing lanes. While his turnovers (3.2 TOV) indicate areas for improvement, they’re a byproduct of his expanded offensive role. Atlanta’s .500 record underscores Johnson’s importance; his emergence could be the key to unlocking the team’s full potential.

9. Michael Porter Jr.

Statistics In 2024-25: 18.7 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG, 1.2 TOV, 50.7% FG, 40.7% 3-PT FG, 65.1% FT

Win-Loss Record: 11-8

Michael Porter Jr.’s elite shooting ability remains his calling card. Shooting nearly 41% from beyond the arc, Porter continues to be a critical floor-spacer for the Denver Nuggets. His off-ball movement and size allow him to capitalize on mismatches, while his 50.7% field goal percentage reflects his efficiency. Porter’s rebounding (7.2 RPG) is an underrated aspect of his game, as he frequently helps the Nuggets control the boards.

However, Porter’s defensive impact remains a work in progress. While he has shown improvement in positioning and effort, he can still struggle against quicker wings. For Denver to maximize its title defense, Porter must step up defensively and expand his offensive consistency, especially in high-stakes moments.

10. Andrew Wiggins

Statistics In 2024-25: 17.2 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.7 BPG, 1.0 TOV, 45.9% FG, 41.7% 3-PT FG, 77.6% FT

Win-Loss Record: 12-8

Andrew Wiggins remains one of the most dependable two-way players in the league and he beats out Mikal Bridges and Jerami Grant because of his excellent performances this season. While his scoring numbers are modest compared to others on this list, his impact lies in his ability to seamlessly fill gaps on both ends of the floor. Shooting 41.7% from deep, Wiggins provides valuable spacing for the Golden State Warriors, while his defensive stats reflect his defensive attentiveness as he is back to his best.

What makes Wiggins vital to the Warriors is his adaptability. He can take on a scoring burden, lock down an opponent’s top scorer, or hit clutch shots and just does whatever is needed. His steady production and unselfish play have been instrumental in Golden State’s ongoing quest to remain a contender.