The small forward position has historically featured a few of the top players in the NBA at any given time. That continues to be true in today’s NBA with superstars like LeBron James and Kevin Durant who have been dominating the NBA for the last few years. Believe it or not though, there are more than two great small forwards in the NBA. Similar to my point guard and shooting guard list, this list will feature players who are predominantly plat the SF position. Here are my early projections for the top 10 small forwards for the 2018-2019 NBA season:
- LeBron James- Los Angeles Lakers
LABron, a fitting nickname gifted to the King by Lavar Ball, has been the best player in the NBA for about a decade. Although his defense is not what it used to be, James more than makes up for it on the offensive end. His ability to score at will and distribute the basketball remains unmatched. Although he joins a new team with a lot more youth and less talent, I still expect ‘King James’ to remain the ‘King’ next season. - Kevin Durant- Golden State Warriors
Although Durant joined a team with multiple all-stars on it, his productivity has not diminished at all. Durant continues to dominate offensively in ways that have made him an all-time great. What makes Durant so special is that he has also bought into the Warriors’ commitment to the defensive end. It has yet to be seen if James’ age will allow Durant to narrow the gap between next year. For now, Durant is still the second best player at the position. - Kawhi Leonard- Toronto Raptors
There were rumors a couple summers ago that Kawhi Leonard worked out with Kobe Bryant. Although he denied those rumors, Leonard’s game suggests otherwise; Which is why we nicknamed him the ‘Lying Ass Mamba’. NBA fans dislike Leonard for the way he silently left the Spurs hanging last summer. To me, that still doesn’t take away from how special Leonard is. He is the best defender at his position, and perhaps in the entire NBA. Leonard’s offensive game has also continued to evolve. Many fans assumed that his success was a product of Popovich’s system. The good news is that we will see if that theory is true or not next season. Well, if he decides to play. I’m sure Raptors fans really hope he does. - Giannis Antetokounmpo- Milwaukee Bucks
I’m sorry to upset Bucks fans, but Antetokounmpo isn’t the best player in the Eastern Conference just yet. However, the 23 year old could easily prove me wrong as he continues to develop. I’ve always had a theory that players don’t reach their prime until the age of about 26. If my theory is correct, that is dangerous news for the rest of the NBA. Antetokounmpo dominates the game physically, especially in transition. Although he might not be as naturally gifted as James or Durant, Antetokounmpo has continued to work very hard on developing his basketball related skills. His innocent demeanor has made him a fan favorite with the young fans especially. The ceiling is the roof for Antetokounmpo, and I fully expect him to shatter that. - Paul George- Oklahoma City Thunder
As long as he doesn’t take a game winning shot from the three-point line, George is virtually unstoppable on the offensive end. I’m not sure how he wasn’t in considerations for the DPOY last year, but George has continued to prove that he is one of the best defenders in the NBA. With the size of a power forward and the skill of a guard, PG13 remains one of the deadliest threats in the NBA. To put it quite simply, I think he is a better athlete than Hayward, with more pure basketball talent than Butler. Just lay off the Gatorade man. - Gordon Hayward- Boston Celtics
Kyrie Irving’s flashy handles and national exposure made him a fan favorite. That being said, being a fan favorite doesn’t mean that you are the best player on your team. I not only expect Gordon Hayward to start the year healthy, but I also expect him to continue to get better throughout the year. Hayward was already a proven all-star in the Western Conference. Most people who hate on Hayward have actually never seen him play to be honest. He is a very athletic forward with the skills of a guard, with much higher endurance than you’d expect. - Jimmy Butler- Minnesota Timberwolves
Here we go again with the Butler vs Hayward debate, right? I think majority of NBA fans would argue that Butler is a lot better than Hayward; To which I’d argue, on what premise? That aside, Butler displayed why he is one of the best players in the NBA last season. His friendship with Dwyane Wade has helped evolve Butler from several standpoints. Butler is in much better shape, and has developed as a leader as well. The Timberwolves were one of the best teams in the Western Conference for a short while, before Butler was hurt. His comeback ultimately helped the Timberwolves just barely make the playoffs. I have to give Butler credit, he did not allow Nikola Jokic’s amazing last game of the season deter the Timberwolves from their goal. My only concern with Butler involves the chemistry rumors I’ve been hearing with some of his fellow teammates. - Tobias Harris- Los Angeles Clippers
In today’s NBA, you need a forward who can rebound, handle the basketball, and guard multiple positions. While he is surrounded with a young core and low expectations, I fully expect Harris to have more opportunities to generate offense for the Clippers. He certainly has the skill and physical gifts to exceed expectations. The question remains, is this the year he finally puts it all together? - Aaron Gordon- Orlando Magic
Gordon is only 22 years old, full of energy, and plays like it. From 5.2 his rookie year, to 9.2, to 12.7, and finally 17.6 points per game last season, Gordon has proved the ability to improve year after year. As Gordon continues to work on his game with some of the best trainers in the industry, he will have the opportunity to move up this list next season. I’m thinking of the ‘9’ spot as his basement. Big fan of this kid. - Harrison Barnes- Dallas Mavericks
Although it remains unclear what the Mavericks’ goals are for next season, one thing I do know is that Barnes will continue to have the opportunities to flourish next season. Playing along side DeAndre Jordan and Luka Doncic will only make Barnes’ life a whole lot easier. Barnes has low key continued to develop his game since leaving the Warriors. He seems to be in a good situation and entering his prime. I expect big things of Harrison Barnes next year.
Guys like Otto Porter Jr., Carmelo Anthony, Robert Covington, and Chandler Parsons may have an argument to make next season. There are also guys like Mirotic, who I’m not 100% quite sure what position he will play next season. This list may vary once I have more insight into final depth charts next season.
Who do you think was disrespected in this list? Tweet me via @tprx11
Per Sources Misses Nothing.