Philadelphia 76ers: 2023 offseason starting small forward rankings

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Philadelphia 76ers, Tobias Harris (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

25. Bruce Brown Jr., Pacers

Bruce Brown Jr. was able to cash in a title with the Denver Nuggets into a nice payday with the Indiana Pacers. Brown Jr. is a bit undersized for the small forward spot standing at only 6-foot-4. However, his length and strength should help make up for his lack of height.

24. Dorian Finney-Smith, Nets

Despite having a down-year shooting last season, Dorian Finney-Smith fits the definition of a 3-and-D wing. Finny-Smith was the key piece that the Brooklyn Nets received in the Kyrie Irving trade to the Mavericks. The 6-foot-7 should provide the Nets with outside shooting and versatility on defense.

23. Max Strus, Cavaliers

While the Cleveland Cavaliers didn’t find a tall 3-and-D wing in free agency, they did land Max Strus in a sign-and-trade. The 6-foot-5 shooter can guard up a position so playing him on the small forward spot can work. However, with Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, and Strus, the Cavs have one of the smallest perimeter trios in the NBA.

22. Shaedon Sharpe, Trail Blazers

Let’s be clear, Shaedon Sharpe is best played at the shooting guard spot and with all the uncertainty with the Portland Trail Blazers, it’s hard to say where he will play at. In the long term, it would make sense for the 6-foot-6 wing to play shooting guard but there’s a good chance that based on the current roster he starts at the small forward spot.

21. Jaden McDaniels, Timberwolves

The Minnesota Timberwolves have one of the better defenders in the NBA in Jaden McDaniels. The 6-foot-9 forward had a career season with Timberwolves last year, especially with his outside shot. One could have argued he should have made an All-Defensive game.