Top 30 NBA small forwards — 9. Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves
The Timberwolves finally made the playoffs, in large part due to Anthony Edwards’ leap to stardom. He still has a long way to go, but the former No. 1 pick is already one of the most impressive wing shot-makers in the game. His strength, footwork, and confidence are seldom matched by someone on the opposing team. He can bury you with pull-up 3s, put his shoulder down and score at the rim, or go to his vintage mid-range package. He’s a three-level threat who is starting to round out the edges of his game.
Top 30 NBA small forwards — 8. Khris Middleton, Bucks
Khris Middleton ranks among the most underrated players in the NBA. His absence from Milwaukee’s second-round exit was somehow an afterthought, but in reality, Middleton is essential to everything the Bucks do. He is the team’s best perimeter scorer — one of the most polished and prolific isolation scorers in the NBA. He is the guy Milwaukee can go to when the halfcourt offense gets bogged down and the defense loads the paint against Giannis. Middleton also defends at a high level and has improved as a passer over the last couple years.
Top 30 NBA small forwards — 7. DeMar DeRozan, Bulls
DeMar DeRozan was written off by many after signing with Chicago last summer. Then, he proceeded to finish top-10 in MVP voting. The Bulls stumbled late in the season due to injuries, but DeRozan was a bonafide superstar offensively. Nobody made the tough shots look easier than DeRozan, while his halfcourt playmaking and improved 3-point stroke made him one of the most prolific all-around contributors on the offensive end. The NBA community has never really shown DeRozan the respect he deserves. There’s a reason he has spent his entire career on winning teams.