Philadelphia 76ers: 2023 offseason starting small forward rankings

5 of 6

Philadelphia 76ers, Joel Embiid (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /

10. Lauri Markkanen, Jazz

Despite being a 7-footer, Lauri Markkanen can play at the small forward spot. He won the Most Improved Player this past season with the rebuilding Utah Jazz. The Jazz added more frontcourt talent, including John Collins, so there’s a chance Markkanen’s production could take a step back.

9. Andrew Wiggins, Warriors

When the Golden State Warriors won the NBA title two years ago, Andrew Wiggins was their best player. Since coming over from the Timberwolves, Wiggins has transformed himself into a two-way star. The 6-foot-7 wing has made an All-Star game since joining Golden State and making another appearance isn’t out of the question.

8. Khris Middleton, Bucks

Last season was a rough one for Khris Middleton and the Milwaukee Bucks. Middleton was injured for most of last season and the Bucks were bounced in the first round. The 6-foot-7 wing needs a bounce-back season if he doesn’t want his new contract to be considered a bad deal.

7. DeMar DeRozan, Bulls

The Chicago Bulls have been stuck in mediocrity, but it hasn’t been due to the play of DeMar DeRozan. The 6-foot-6 wing has been one of the best mid-range assassins in the NBA. He’s also in the last year of his current contract so if the Bulls begin the season slow again, it’s possible they could trade him.

6. Kawhi Leonard, Clippers

The argument could be made that if Kawhi Leonard could stay healthy for a long period, then he’d be in the top-3 or even the top player in these rankings. However, the 6-foot-7 wing rarely can stay healthy now in days. It will be interesting what Leonard’s future with the Los Angeles Clippers will look like if he continues to struggle with his health.