The 10 Best Small Forwards in NBA History

Talking about the best small forwards in NBA history means talking about one of the positions that has gathered the most talent over the decades. From the stars that dominated in the 1960s and 1970s to modern superstars capable of controlling every aspect of the game, the small forward position has housed true legends.

Using the ranking of the best small forwards of all time as the basis for this list, LeBron James holds the number 1 spot, ahead of Larry Bird and Kevin Durant. The Top 10 is completed with names like Julius Erving, Elgin Baylor, Scottie Pippen, John Havlicek, Kawhi Leonard, Rick Barry, and Dominique Wilkins.

1. LeBron James

LeBron James is the undisputed number one in this ranking. His combination of longevity, individual dominance, and ability to elevate his teammates has made him one of the most complete players the NBA has ever seen.

His accolades are extraordinary: four rings, four Finals MVPs, four regular-season MVPs, and 22 All-Star appearances. Additionally, he boasts 13 All-NBA Team selections and five All-Defensive Team appearances.

His scoring prowess is matched by exceptional court vision. LeBron has been able to take over games as a scorer, rebounder, defender, and especially as a playmaker. His longevity is also a significant part of his legacy, remaining among the elite even after crossing the age of 40.

2. Larry Bird

Larry Bird epitomizes the perfect blend of talent, intellect, and competitiveness in a small forward.

The legendary Boston Celtics player won three championships, two Finals MVPs, and three regular-season MVPs, in addition to being a nine-time All-NBA Team selection.

Bird could score, shoot, rebound, and pass at an extraordinary level. His ability to decide crucial games was particularly evident during his epic battles with the Philadelphia 76ers. Between 1983-84 and 1985-86, he won three consecutive MVP awards, a feat achieved by only three players in NBA history.

3. Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant is one of the most unstoppable scorers to have graced the NBA. Standing close to 6'10", he possesses ball-handling and shooting skills typical of a much smaller player.

His resume includes two championships, two Finals MVPs, one regular-season MVP, and 16 All-Star selections, along with four Olympic gold medals and an Olympic MVP.

Durant can shoot from virtually anywhere on the court and has shown to be a formidable defender when fully engaged. His position in the rankings also acknowledges that his two championships came with the Golden State Warriors, within an exceptionally talented roster.

4. Julius Erving

Julius Erving, globally known as Dr. J, was one of the great offensive innovators in basketball.

He won an NBA championship, an MVP, and was a five-time All-NBA Team selection, in addition to participating in 11 All-Star Games.

His career in the ABA before joining the NBA affects his historical stats, as he debuted in the league at age 26. Nonetheless, he made the All-Star team in every season he played in both the ABA and the NBA. His flair, athleticism, and mastery in transition made him one of the most revolutionary players of his generation.

5. Elgin Baylor

Elgin Baylor was one of the first great small forwards to combine extraordinary scoring production with spectacular physical dominance.

He amassed 10 All-NBA Team selections and 11 All-Star appearances, while also ranking among the historical leaders in scoring and rebounding in the league.

His career was marked by numerous Finals losses, seven of them, six against the Boston Celtics. Nonetheless, his historical impact is undeniable. Baylor was one of the early great perimeter players able to utilize his athleticism to dominate from the outside, paving the way for many future stars.

6. Scottie Pippen

Scottie Pippen was much more than Michael Jordan's teammate at the Chicago Bulls. His defensive prowess, versatility, and playmaking talent make him one of the greatest small forwards of all time.

Pippen won six NBA championships, was a seven-time All-Star, and appeared eight times on the All-Defensive Teams. He also secured two Olympic gold medals.

His blend of speed, wingspan, and ability to defend virtually any perimeter player made him a nightmare for opponents. Moreover, he was ahead of his time as a point forward, capable of taking on playmaking responsibilities and leading fast-break attacks.

7. John Havlicek

John Havlicek is one of the iconic figures in Boston Celtics history and one of the most successful players of all time.

He won eight NBA championships, along with a Finals MVP, 11 All-NBA Team selections, and 13 All-Star appearances. He was also named to the All-Defensive Team five times.

Havlicek stood out for his scoring ability and tremendous effort on both ends of the court. He could produce from mid-range, run the break, and do the less glamorous work. His famous steal in the 1965 Conference Finals will forever be etched in NBA history.

8. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard is one of the most challenging cases to assess due to physical issues that have influenced much of his career. Yet, when healthy, he has proven to be one of the dominant small forwards of his generation.

He boasts two championships, two Finals MVPs, and two Defensive Player of the Year awards, along with seven All-Star selections and seven All-Defensive Team honors.

His tenure with the Toronto Raptors stands out as a prime example of individual leadership in the playoffs. Leonard combines elite defense, exceptional mid-range play, and a great knack for showing up in crucial moments.

9. Rick Barry

Rick Barry was one of the early great small forwards capable of doing nearly everything on a basketball court.

He won an NBA championship, a Finals MVP, and was a five-time All-NBA Team selection, in addition to competing in eight All-Star Games.

His ball-handling, shooting, attacking the rim, rebounding, and playmaking skills made him a tremendously complete player. His ABA stint during the peak of his career for four seasons also influences his historical numbers in the NBA.

10. Dominique Wilkins

Dominique Wilkins rounds out the Top 10 with a blend of power, athleticism, and scoring talent that made him one of the great entertainers in the NBA.

The Atlanta Hawks player was a nine-time All-Star and a seven-time All-NBA Team selection.

His reputation as one of the greatest dunkers of all time should not overshadow the rest of his game. Wilkins could punish defenders with drives, mid-range play, and extraordinary physical power. His playoff battles against Larry Bird are part of NBA lore.

The Top 10 Small Forwards in NBA History

The list clearly underscores how significant the small forward position has been in NBA history. LeBron, Bird, and Durant represent three distinct generations of superstars, while players like Dr. J, Baylor, Pippen, or Havlicek helped redefine what an exterior player could achieve.

Although criteria can spark debates—especially when comparing eras so different—it's challenging to dispute the presence of these ten names among the greatest legends to have played as small forwards in the NBA.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 10 mejores aleros de la historia de la NBA