Ranking the top 30 small forwards in the NBA
Atlanta Hawks. De'Andre Hunter. 18. player. 125. . SF
Top 30 NBA small forwards — 18. De’Andre Hunter, Hawks
De’Andre Hunter has been dragged down by injuries with frustrating frequency. When he’s healthy, however, the Hawks are an entirely different team. He’s not only an elite wing defender, but also an integral part of Atlanta’s offense. He’s the best self-creator in the starting five behind Trae Young, with the strength to bully mismatches in the post and a silky smooth mid-range game. Hopefully he can put together a full season of good health.
211. . SF. Memphis Grizzlies. Dillon Brooks. 17. player
Top 30 NBA small forwards — 17. Dillon Brooks, Grizzlies
Dillon Brooks is unpredictable at times, but the results are overwhelmingly positive when he’s on the court for Memphis. Next to Ja Morant, he’s the team’s best perimeter shot-maker — a wing with unshakable confidence and the ability to get microwave hot on any given night. On defense, he is the Grizzlies’ best on-ball defender. In fact, when he’s dialed in, Brooks is one of the best on-ball defenders in the NBA, period. With enough competitive fire to fuel the entire franchise, Brooks should continue providing quality minutes for a top-tier contender.
16. player. 38. . SF. Orlando Magic. Franz Wagner
Top 30 NBA small forwards — 16. Franz Wagner, Magic
Franz Wagner came out of the gates strong in year one, earning first team All-Rookie honors and cementing his place in Orlando’s future. In fact, one could argue that Wagner is the centerpiece around which the Magic’s rebuild is currently focused. At least, until the upcoming No. 1 pick arrives. Even then, Wagner should be positioned for success. He doesn’t need the ball to impact winning, but there’s definitely untapped potential for Orlando to explore.