Top 10 Small Forwards in NBA History

Ranking the greatest small forwards in NBA history is no simple task. The position has evolved dramatically over the decades, producing players who could score, defend, rebound, and serve as offensive playmakers. The best small forwards in basketball history combined versatility with elite skill sets that allowed them to impact every aspect of the game.

From the dominant scorers of the 1970s and 1980s to the clutch performers who delivered championships on the biggest stage, the small forward position has been home to some of the most exciting players the NBA has ever seen.

For this list, active players are not eligible, ensuring that only retired legends are considered. These players were evaluated based on their scoring ability, leadership, longevity, championships, and overall impact on the game.

Here are the 10 greatest small forwards in NBA history.

10) Alex English

Alex English was one of the most consistent scorers the NBA has ever seen, particularly during the high-scoring era of the 1980s. While English rarely received the same level of national attention as some of his contemporaries, his production on the court speaks for itself.

English scored over 25,000 career points, and during the 1980s he actually led the entire NBA in total points scored for the decade. His scoring style was smooth and effortless. Unlike many explosive scorers who relied heavily on athleticism, English used exceptional footwork, soft shooting touch, and incredible positioning to create scoring opportunities.

Most of English’s greatest seasons came with the Denver Nuggets, where he was the centerpiece of one of the league’s most explosive offenses. The Nuggets frequently played in high-scoring games, and English thrived in that system.

He was an eight-time NBA All-Star and averaged over 25 points per game during his prime years. What made English particularly impressive was his efficiency. He scored at a high rate without forcing shots or dominating the ball excessively.

Although his teams never won a championship, English’s scoring consistency and longevity cement his place among the greatest small forwards to ever play the game.

How Good Was Alex English REALLY?

9) Scottie Pippen

Scottie Pippen is widely regarded as one of the greatest defensive players and most versatile forwards in NBA history. While he often played alongside Michael Jordan during the Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990s, Pippen’s individual contributions were critical to the team’s success.

Pippen’s defensive ability was extraordinary. Standing 6’8″ with long arms and exceptional quickness, he could guard virtually every position on the floor. His ability to disrupt passing lanes, force turnovers, and shut down opposing stars made him the defensive backbone of the Bulls championship teams.

Offensively, Pippen was far more than just a role player. He was an excellent ball handler and playmaker who often served as the Bulls’ secondary point guard. His court vision allowed him to create scoring opportunities for teammates while also contributing as a scorer.

Pippen helped lead the Bulls to six NBA championships and was selected to 10 All-Defensive Teams during his career.

Many analysts consider him the greatest “second option” in NBA history. His ability to complement Jordan’s scoring while dominating defensively was a major reason the Bulls became one of the greatest dynasties in sports history.

Scottie Pippen || Criminally Underrated || Career Highlights Mix

8) Adrian Dantley

Adrian Dantley was one of the most efficient scorers in NBA history and one of the most difficult players to defend during the late 1970s and 1980s.

Despite not possessing elite athleticism compared to many other stars, Dantley was nearly unstoppable offensively because of his footwork, strength, and understanding of angles. He thrived in the low post, using pump fakes and body control to draw fouls and convert high-percentage shots.

Dantley finished his career shooting 54 percent from the field, an incredible percentage for a player who averaged over 30 points per game in four separate seasons.

He won two NBA scoring titles and was a six-time NBA All-Star. His ability to generate offense from the post made him a nightmare matchup for defenders, particularly because he was so effective at getting to the free-throw line.

Dantley’s offensive dominance helped transform the Utah Jazz into a competitive team during the early 1980s, and he later played a key role with the Detroit Pistons during their rise to championship contention.

Although he sometimes flew under the radar compared to flashier stars, Dantley’s scoring efficiency and consistency make him one of the greatest small forwards the league has ever seen.

Vintage Adrian Dantley Highlights

7) James Worthy

James Worthy earned the nickname “Big Game James” because of his ability to perform at his best when the stakes were highest. As a key member of the Los Angeles Lakers’ famous Showtime era, Worthy played a vital role in one of the most exciting teams in NBA history.

Worthy’s combination of speed, athleticism, and finishing ability made him one of the most dangerous transition players in the league. He thrived in the Lakers’ fast-paced offense alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

His greatest moment came during the 1988 NBA Finals, when he delivered one of the most iconic performances in Finals history. In Game 7 against the Detroit Pistons, Worthy recorded a triple-double with 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 10 assists, earning the Finals MVP award.

Worthy was a seven-time All-Star and played a crucial role in the Lakers’ three championships during the 1980s.

While he may not have been the primary star on those teams, his ability to deliver in critical moments made him one of the most valuable players of the Showtime dynasty.

75 Stories | James Worthy

6) Dominique Wilkins

Dominique Wilkins, known as “The Human Highlight Film,” was one of the most electrifying scorers and dunkers in NBA history.

Wilkins spent the majority of his career with the Atlanta Hawks, where he became the face of the franchise and one of the league’s most exciting players. His incredible leaping ability and aggressive scoring style made him a constant threat to explode for huge offensive performances.

Wilkins averaged 24.8 points per game during his career, consistently ranking among the league’s top scorers throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.

He was a nine-time NBA All-Star and won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest twice, delivering some of the most memorable dunks the league has ever seen.

One of Wilkins’ most famous moments came during the 1988 Eastern Conference Semifinals, when he engaged in an unforgettable scoring duel with Larry Bird in Game 7. Wilkins scored 47 points in the game, but Bird ultimately led the Celtics to victory.

Despite never winning a championship, Wilkins’ scoring brilliance and highlight-reel athleticism made him one of the most exciting players in NBA history.

Dominique Wilkins CRAZY Dunk Reel! Over 10 Minutes Of Highlights

5) Rick Barry

Rick Barry was one of the most unique and controversial stars in NBA history, but there is no denying his incredible talent and competitive drive.

Barry was known for his fearless personality, intense competitiveness, and unconventional underhand free throw shooting style, which helped him maintain one of the highest free-throw percentages in NBA history.

His career averages of 24.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game demonstrate just how versatile he was offensively.

Barry’s greatest achievement came during the 1975 NBA Finals, when he led the Golden State Warriors to a stunning upset over the heavily favored Washington Bullets. Barry dominated the series and was named Finals MVP.

Barry’s ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his defensive intensity and playmaking ability, made him one of the most complete players of his era.

75 Stories | Rick Barry

4) John Havlicek

John Havlicek was one of the most versatile and durable players in NBA history. During his career with the Boston Celtics, Havlicek became synonymous with winning.

Havlicek was part of eight NBA championship teams, making him one of the most decorated players in league history.

He was a 13-time All-Star, earned 11 All-NBA selections, and was named to eight All-Defensive teams, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.

Havlicek’s famous steal against the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals remains one of the most iconic plays in NBA history.

Beyond individual moments, Havlicek’s relentless energy and leadership helped keep the Celtics competitive long after the retirement of Bill Russell.

How GOOD Was John Havlicek Actually?

3) Julius Erving

Julius “Dr. J” Erving revolutionized basketball with his incredible athleticism and above-the-rim style of play.

Before joining the NBA, Erving dominated the ABA, where he averaged nearly 29 points and 12 rebounds per game during his first five seasons.

When the ABA merged with the NBA, Erving continued his excellence with the Philadelphia 76ers, becoming one of the league’s biggest stars.

Erving was an 11-time NBA All-Star, won the 1981 NBA MVP award, and led the 76ers to the 1983 NBA championship.

His ability to finish spectacular dunks and glide through the air helped popularize the modern dunk contest.

HD Highlights of Julius ‘Dr. J’ Erving

2) Elgin Baylor

Elgin Baylor was one of the most revolutionary players in basketball history. Long before modern superstars brought aerial athleticism to the game, Baylor was already redefining how basketball could be played.

During his first seven seasons, Baylor averaged an astonishing 30.2 points and 15.4 rebounds per game, numbers rarely seen for a forward.

His 1961–62 season remains one of the most impressive statistical seasons in NBA history, as he averaged 38.3 points and 18.6 rebounds per game.

Baylor’s ability to hang in the air and finish difficult shots around defenders was revolutionary.

Although he never won a championship, Baylor’s influence on the game and his incredible scoring ability make him one of the greatest players in NBA history.

Elgin Baylor Highlights | 4K | As Good As There Ever Was

1) Larry Bird

Larry Bird stands as the greatest small forward in NBA history.

Bird’s combination of shooting, passing, rebounding, and basketball IQ made him one of the most complete players the game has ever seen.

When Bird joined the Boston Celtics in 1979, the franchise had just finished one of its worst seasons. Within two years, Bird had led them to an NBA championship.

Bird finished his career with three NBA championships, three MVP awards, two Finals MVP awards, and 12 All-Star selections.

His ability to elevate teammates and perform in clutch moments made him one of the most feared competitors in NBA history.

Bird didn’t just dominate games — he controlled them.

His legendary rivalry with Magic Johnson helped transform the NBA into a global sport.

Larry Bird Highlights | Part 1 | Boston Celtics | NBC Sports Boston