Ranking 25 Best Small Forwards For 2025-26 NBA Season

After breaking down the league’s best point guards and shooting guards, we now shift to the small forwards, a position that has long defined NBA greatness. From obvious legends like LeBron James and Kevin Durant to the new wave of versatile wings, the small forward spot has become invaluable. 

In today’s game, these players often serve as the primary offensive engines while also taking on the toughest defensive assignments; therefore, they must be regarded highly. It is time to rank the top 25 small forwards in the NBA as we head into the 2025-26 season.

1. LeBron James

2024-25 Averages: 24.4 PPG, 7.8 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Even after Year 22, LeBron James still finds himself at the top of the small forward rankings, which is remarkable in itself. Averaging nearly a triple-double in 2024-25, his ability to control the game as both a scorer and facilitator keeps him elite despite the mileage. 

No player at his age has ever been this productive, and his leadership still makes him the centerpiece of the Lakers’ success. As things stand, there still isn’t a better swingman in the NBA than The King and that might help him in the never-ending GOAT debate.

2. Kevin Durant

2024-25 Averages: 26.6 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 4.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Kevin Durant’s offensive perfection hasn’t dulled with time. His scoring efficiency, ability to shoot over any defender, and underrated rim protection cement him as one of the deadliest small forwards in basketball. That is why the Rockets paid a premium price to bring him on board.

At 36, he’s proving that his game, built on skill and length, ages gracefully, keeping him in the top tier and only behind LeBron James. Heading into 2025-26, we don’t anticipate seeing a decline in Durant’s abilities and he will likely put up another All-NBA-caliber season. 

3. Jalen Williams

2024-25 Averages: 21.6 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 5.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Jalen Williams’ breakout with the OKC Thunder has elevated him into superstar territory as an All-Star, All-NBA Team member, and NBA champion. His two-way impact, crafty mid-range game, and defensive instincts have made him one of the best all-around players in the league. 

The leap he took last season shows that Oklahoma City’s championship ceiling is higher than ever, and the team could go back-to-back without a surprise. Williams is key for the team and his impact cannot be ignored as he chases the two legends ahead of him in the rankings.

4. Jaylen Brown

2024-25 Averages: 22.2 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 4.5 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Fresh off another strong year with Boston, Jaylen Brown lands in the top five thanks to his athletic finishing, defensive versatility, and steadily improving playmaking. While often overshadowed by Jayson Tatum, Brown has embraced his role as a two-way force who can swing playoff games on both ends.

The key for Brown in 2025-26 is to carry a Celtics team without Tatum and if he can do so, cement himself as a far greater player than he is getting credit for. Brown is always a threat on both ends of the court but this is his chance to put his name in the MVP ballot.

5. Franz Wagner

2024-25 Averages: 24.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG

The Orlando Magic’s rise has a lot to do with Franz Wagner’s rapid growth as a player. His blend of size, skill, and creativity makes him a matchup nightmare, and his averages last season show he’s more than ready to shoulder star responsibilities. 

Wagner is now firmly recognized as one of the NBA’s premier small forwards and he must answer the bell as Paolo Banchero’s sidekick to reach that next level. There isn’t anything in the way of Wagner putting up All-Star numbers again and his talent is undeniable at 24 years old.

6. Kawhi Leonard

2024-25 Averages: 21.5 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Though not always available, when Kawhi Leonard is on the floor, he’s still a top-10 small forward. In fact, the only reason he isn’t in the top three is because we don’t trust him to remain on the court consistently as he falls out of the top five. 

His defensive dominance and efficient scoring remind everyone why he was once considered the league’s most complete player. The Clippers remain dangerous largely because Leonard can still deliver when it matters most. If Kawhi is healthy and back to his best, which is unlikely, he might soar up the rankings. 

7. Jimmy Butler

2024-25 Averages: 17.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Former All-Star Jimmy Butler’s scoring dipped, but his value goes beyond stats. His playmaking, leadership, and clutch performances keep him relevant as one of the NBA’s most respected wings for the Warriors. 

Golden State know that when the postseason rolls around, Butler shifts gears in ways few others can. He didn’t quite hit the highest level last season and while he was good, he wasn’t great. The Warriors need more from Butler to make up for the attrition catching up to Stephen Curry.

8. Mikal Bridges

2024-25 Averages: 17.6 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 3.7 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Mikal Bridges had a strong year with the Knicks, as his defense, durability, and three-point shooting remain his trademarks. He may not be the No. 3 scorer that can take over games, but the Knicks don’t really need Bridges to be that. 

His all-around game and versatility make him an indispensable top-10 small forward and he brings a ton on the defensive end that is hard to replace. Is Bridges going to be a long-term All-Star? Probably not. But is he immensely valuable? Absolutely.

9. Brandon Ingram 

2024-25 Averages: 22.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 5.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Brandon Ingram is a smooth scorer with underrated playmaking chops, which is why the Toronto Raptors couldn’t wait to strike a trade for him this offseason. He thrives in isolation, can create off the dribble, and offers enough length defensively to disrupt opponents. 

While his health is always a question, when on the court, he’s one of the toughest matchups at the wing spot. If Ingram stays available, there is no way we can drop him out of the top 10 by any means because of how much we respect his capabilities and potential. 

10. Lauri Markkanen

2024-25 Averages: 19.0 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Lauri Markkanen had a down year last season due to a variety of factors but has reinvented himself as a stretch forward with elite scoring touch. Though not a traditional small forward, his ability to space the floor and rebound makes him a perfect modern wing. 

He earns a top-10 spot because his offensive versatility is undeniable and we anticipate vast improvements to his production on the stat sheet. When at his best, Markkanen can be very good defensively and has a mixed bag offensively, so it is up to the player to showcase these skills.

11. Norman Powell

2024-25 Averages: 21.8 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Norman Powell’s scoring surge with the Clippers last season puts him squarely in the top half of the rankings. Now with the Miami Heat, Powell will be able to play in a system built on aggressiveness which fits his mindset at all times.

His aggressive downhill drives, perimeter shooting, and energy off the wing have made him one of the more underrated offensive weapons in the league as he just missed out on an All-Star selection last season. We predict Powell to average at least 20 PPG in 2025-26 again.

12. Michael Porter Jr.

2024-25 Averages: 18.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Michael Porter Jr.’s size and shooting stroke will always be valuable in the modern NBA, even if the Denver Nuggets felt they had to trade him for salary cap purposes. Porter Jr. is one of the best natural shooters in the NBA, and that is a skill very valued right now.

While consistency and defense remain issues, his rebounding numbers and ability to catch fire from deep earn him a spot just outside the top 10. With the Brooklyn Nets, Porter Jr. has the chance to up his average to around 24 PPG if he gets his mind right.

13. Cam Johnson

2024-25 Averages: 18.8 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 3.4 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG

The player who will replace Porter Jr. in Denver, Cam Johnson thrives as a modern-day wing who spaces the floor and complements stars. His shooting efficiency and growing ability to attack closeouts keep him in this list, though he’s more of a high-end role player than a primary option.

The Nuggets knew what they wanted when they made the trade for him, because Johnson is a better athlete than Porter Jr. although he isn’t quite the rebounder. As long as Cam can nail his three-pointers at above 38%, he will be a perfect supplementary option for Nikola Jokic.

14. Jaden McDaniels

2024-25 Averages: 12.2 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 2.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Jaden McDaniels might not put up big scoring numbers, but his defensive presence is elite and there is no reason why he can’t be in Defensive Player of the Year conversations. The Timberwolves know his value and the player could be untouchable as a result. 

With length, agility, and the ability to guard multiple positions, McDaniels is one of the NBA’s best wing stoppers. Add improving offensive confidence, and his value skyrockets in 2025-26.

15. Cooper Flagg

2024-25 Averages: N/A

Though untested at the NBA level yet, Cooper Flagg’s Summer League and preseason flashes have fans buzzing. His defensive instincts, shooting ability, and advanced maturity for a rookie push him into this ranking early since he represents the league’s next great small forward in the making.

Now, we could be jumping the gun. Flagg could struggle and we could feel silly putting him above some other established stars. Alternatively, Flagg could go on a historic rookie tear, and he could even climb into the top 10. It’s a wait-and-see situation with the No. 1 overall pick.

16. DeMar DeRozan

2024-25 Averages: 22.2 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 4.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Currently in a veteran role with the Sacramento Kings, future Hall-of-Famer DeMar DeRozan still thrives as a mid-range assassin. His scoring punch and ability to create in half-court sets keep him relevant among small forwards, even as he transitions into the twilight of his career.

We are unsure if DeRozan belongs with the Kings over the long term because we expect some decline from him in the 2025-26 season, but until it is easy to see, we won’t drop him much further in the rankings.

17. Paul George

2024-25 Averages: 16.2 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.3 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Two-way swingman Paul George has been forced into a more complementary role in Philadelphia, but his defensive IQ and shot-making keep him effective. No longer the superstar he once was, he could still be a strong two-way presence and a respected veteran leader if he can stay healthy.

The reason he drops to just 17th is how poor he looked due to health, attrition, and inconsistency. George is good enough to be a top-10 swingman on paper, but we don’t trust his knees to hold up for much longer. We know the Sixers are praying for a miracle heading into the 2025-26 season.

18. Herbert Jones

2024-25 Averages: 10.3 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Herb Jones is the definition of a glue guy but we want to see him grow far beyond that. He has the capabilities to do so, especially on the defensive end. His elite on-ball defense, hustle, and ability to contribute in multiple ways without dominating the ball make him invaluable. 

The Pelicans rely on him to neutralize opposing stars, which is why he cracks the top 20. If the franchise don’t value what he can bring, however, perhaps he should move to a better situation because any playoff team would love to have Jones’ defensive abilities on their side.

19. Devin Vassell 

2024-25 Averages: 16.3 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 2.9 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Devin Vassell’s growth with the Spurs was looking promising before a down season dropped him the rankings a little bit. His shooting, scoring consistency, and defensive effort make him an underrated piece in San Antonio’s rebuild, but we aren’t sure if he fits into the long-term plans. 

Vassell has two-way potential but hasn’t shown enough of it to make him untouchable. Perhaps he is better off with a new franchise but if he stays and has a strong 2025-26 campaign, the 25-year-old can start getting back to some strong production like he showed in the previous two seasons.

20. Deni Avdija 

2024-25 Averages: 16.9 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Deni Avdija has found his rhythm as a do-it-all forward in Portland. His rebounding, passing, and improved shooting make him a versatile threat, and he’s shown he can be more than just a complementary piece.

However, we aren’t sure if Avdija’s impressive stat-sheet numbers were as a result of playing on a bad team where he got plenty of opportunities. What Avdija does in 2025-26 will answer that question because another strong season could have him climbing the rankings.

21. Aaron Nesmith 

2024-25 Averages: 12.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Aaron Nesmith thrived in Indiana’s system, excelling as a 3-and-D contributor and having some excellent breakout games last season. His ability to hit timely threes while guarding tough matchups on the wing gives the Pacers invaluable depth. 

He may not be flashy all the time, but he’s effective. The Pacers might have found a gem who can keep improving because the 25-year-old’s elite athletic gifts mean the ceiling could be very high for him moving forward.

22. De’Andre Hunter 

2024-25 Averages: 17.0 PPG, 4.0 RPG, 1.4 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

De’Andre Hunter has been consistent as a scorer and defender and we hope he can keep that up for the Cavaliers in 2025-26. While injuries might limit his ceiling a little bit, his strength, shooting, and defensive versatility keep him in the mix among starting-caliber small forwards.

The key for Hunter is to stay available, confident, and willing to do the extra work to make the Cavs tick. He is very capable of going off offensively, but his impact will need to come from defense, rebounding, and passing to take that next level.

23. Dillon Brooks

2024-25 Averages: 14.0 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Love him or hate him, Dillon Brooks is impactful and believe us when we say the Rockets did not want to give him up in the trade for Kevin Durant this summer. His defense, toughness, and streaky shooting can swing games, and he embraces the role of agitator. 

Any NBA team will value his grit as much as his scoring, and we hope the Phoenix Suns can find a way to utilize those to their advantage. Brooks could see a slight drop in production next year since he might not be as motivated to attack every second of the floor like he did last year, but he is still a game-changer defensively. 

24. Ausar Thompson

2024-25 Averages: 10.1 PPG, 5.1 RPG, 2.3 APG, 1.7 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Ausar Thompson’s second season showed flashes of stardom thanks to his defense, rebounding, and athleticism. His offensive game is still developing, but his energy and defensive versatility already make him a valuable starter in Detroit.

If Ausar can follow in his twin brother’s footsteps and start crashing the boards with hunger and even improve his playmaking, he could become irreplaceable. The athletic gifts are there and so is the confidence, Ausar just needs to put it all together.

25. Zaccharie Risacher

2024-25 Averages: 12.6 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 1.2 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Zaccharie Risacher closes the list as a promising second-year player for Atlanta. His shooting touch, size, and defensive instincts give him long-term upside, and while still raw, his potential is too great to ignore this early.

We can definitely see Risacher becoming a perfect two-way wing in the modern NBA because his jumper has improved as the months went by and his understanding of how to stay with ball-handlers should follow. We expect a very strong campaign from the former No. 1 overall pick.