NBA Draft: Ranking the top 5 small forwards

The NBA has arguably the greatest athletes in the world, and there is no position in the league where that is more evident than at small forward, where rangy wings display a diverse array of skills.

LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, and Khris Middleton are just a few notable big-time performers who play the position.

As we look to the upcoming NBA Draft, here are the top five small forwards available.

5. Corey Kispert, Gonzaga

Kispert is the best shooter in this year’s draft class and that guarantees him a spot in the first round, despite some deficiencies that might normally land a player outside the top 30.

He has been compared to Joe Harris and Danny Green, two outside shooters who have flourished in the right environments, which allow playmaking guards to drive and kick to waiting wings.

At 6’7”, Kispert has good size to get his shot off and is a fantastic competitor who was named West Coast Conference Player of the Year and was college basketball’s top small forward (Julius Erving Award).

Kispert won’t be the next LeBron James or Kawhi Leonard, but he will be a valuable addition in the right lineup.

4. Jalen Johnson, Duke

Johnson played just 13 games at Duke as a true freshman, then he injured his foot and opted out to focus on the NBA Draft.

During his short stint at Duke, Johnson averaged impressive numbers — 18.9 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.1 blocks, 1.9 steals, 52.3% shooting from the field, and 44.4% from three-point range.

The Sacramento Kings are looking for a small forward and are likely to go with Johnson,or the next player on our list.

3. Franz Wagner, Michigan

Wagner doesn’t turn 20 until August but has played 59 games professionally in Europe and 55 games with one of the top collegiate programs in the country. In that time, he has grown and developed. He has a frame and quickness that makes him an appealing pick for early in the first round.

Wagner needs to continue to work on his aggressiveness and strength on offense, but on defense, he can hold his own. He has also shown great passing smarts.

His defensive versatility would pair well with the Kings' young guards, De’Aaron Fox and Tyrese Haliburton.

2. Jonathan Kuminga, Congo

Kuminga played one year in the G League and struggled with shooting but is clearly an athletic phenom that will continue to develop his offensive skills with professional practice time.

Kuminga currently looks more like a project than a polished starter for next season, but with his potential and youth, he could be a project the Oklahoma City Thunder is interested in, as the franchise continues to stockpile young talent and draft capital. 

1. Scottie Barnes, Florida State

Barnes played just one year at Florida State, and it was a situation everyone knew would be a one-and-done deal.

At 6’9”, 227 pounds, Barnes proved capable at the collegiate level and can play all five positions. He is athletic and has a 7’2” wingspan, which he utilizes to play elite defense and make outstanding passes. His vision and understanding of the game is what separates him most from the rest of this class.

Barnes will need to work on his shooting and develop his athletic explosiveness at the next level, but he has the frame and foundation to become the kind of small forward who can excel for many years.

The Orlando Magic has the fifth and eighth picks, is expected to bring in athletic wings who can play defense, and Barnes fits that mold.