Highlights
A great small forward in NBA 2K24 is like having an extra player on the court, capable of playing every position effectively.
Promising small forwards for future success include Michael Porter Jr., Franz Wagner, Desmond Bane, and Mikal Bridges.
Noteworthy small forwards with exceptional skills and accomplishments are Khris Middleton, Brandon Ingram, Paul George, Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, and LeBron James.
Having a great small forward in NBA 2K24 is like having an additional player on the court. Considered the greatest player of this generation, small forwards have the ability to replace him. They must possess the skills to excel in every position, from guard to center.
Not every player has the capability to score from anywhere on the court or defend against fast point guards and towering 7'5" centers. NBA 2K24 showcases numerous small forwards who are well-rounded and can perform all tasks. Among them, a select few can achieve greatness at the highest level, adapting to the demands of the game with precision.
10 Michael Porter Jr. - 83
It is undeniable that Michael Porter Jr. would be a valuable asset to any team in the league if he received support. Despite being in the league for four years, Porter has only managed to start in approximately half of the games due to injury. Fortunately, he was able to contribute to the Nuggets' championship victory last year.
Although he did not perform exceptionally well in the series, it could be viewed as a glimpse of his future potential. Porter has consistently been acknowledged for his offensive and defensive abilities. With good health and adequate training, Denver can expect another championship win in the near future.
9 Franz Wagner - 84
Franz Wagner's notable quality is his immediate focus on passing as a priority during his rookie season. Recognizing the value of assists in championship teams, Wagner appropriately emphasizes this metric.
Should the Magic choose to construct a team around Wagner, they may have a promising asset. As long as he maintains his dedication to enhancing important aspects of his game, Orlando will be eager to secure this young talent for an extended period.
8 Desmond Bane - 85
Desmond Bane has shown consistent improvement each year, with his standout performance last season being disrupted by off-court problems faced by the Grizzlies. Despite this setback, Bane managed to average over 20 points per game, demonstrating his valuable skills in both vision and scoring, particularly from long range. Considering the challenges of playing in the NBA, Bane's abilities make him a valuable asset to a team with a bright future. If the team can maintain stability for a year, Bane has the potential to become the star player on a championship-winning team.
7 Khris Middleton - 86
The Bucks suffered an early exit as the first seed last year. However, fans can be thrilled that Khris Middleton made a triumphant return from injury and showcased his dominance throughout the series. Despite the team's losses, Middleton performed at a level that suggested he hadn't missed a single game, despite his three All-Star seasons.
With Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the way, the Bucks boast perhaps the strongest pairing of forwards in the entire league. The team has already secured one championship utilizing this strategy, and if both players maintain their exceptional performances, it's highly likely that they will add more Finals championships to their list of achievements in the future.
6 Mikal Bridges - 87
Since his drafting in 2018, Mikal Bridges has showcased impeccable commitment by never missing a game, despite playing in a position vulnerable to injuries. Known for his defensive prowess and having won two NCAA championships, Bridges significantly contributed to the Nets through the influential Kevin Durant trade.
Brooklyn's decision to acquire Bridges has proven advantageous, as he has quickly made an impact on the team. Notably, he earned his first Player of the Week title and delivered three impressive 40-point performances following his inclusion. While the Nets are currently in a rebuilding phase, Bridges remains a top-notch asset, making him an ideal cornerstone for any team.
5 Brandon Ingram - 87
After encountering difficulties in Los Angeles, Brandon Ingram was relocated to New Orleans, where he swiftly earned his inaugural All-Star nomination and clinched the NBA's prestigious Most Improved Player accolade. Regrettably, he has encountered challenges in completing an entire season without setback.
Nevertheless, he achieved a personal best in points per game during the most recent season. Provided he remains in optimum health, Ingram has demonstrated his ability and readiness to further progress. The horizon of sports gaming holds immense promise, and Ingram's future appears equally radiant in both the NBA and the game itself.
4 Paul George - 89
The Clippers are fortunate to have two small forwards featured in this list. Given the team's challenges with injuries, Paul George is frequently relied upon to shoulder the burden for his ailing teammates. George earned his eighth All-Star selection last year, indicating his exceptional skills in handling such responsibilities.
In addition to his well-known scoring abilities, George is a consistent presence on the NBA All-Defense teams. When utilizing a controller designed for sports games, choosing George as a player provides a delightful experience due to his unmatched versatility. He can block, steal, and score against any opponent, ensuring an enjoyable gameplay.
3 Kawhi Leonard - 92
Due to injuries, the All-Star Game has been missed by the two-time Finals MVP. Ever since joining Los Angeles, Kawhi Leonard has not played more than 57 games. Nevertheless, whenever he is present on the court, any team he plays for becomes a strong contender. If he manages to stay healthy for a year, there is little doubt that he can reclaim the title of champion.
Whether it be on offense or defense, Leonard's performance is a spectacle to behold. With a steals title and two NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards under his belt, he proves that defense plays a pivotal role in winning championships, going beyond being a mere cliché.
2 Jimmy Butler - 93
The Miami Heat had a tough road to the playoffs last year, barely squeezing in as the eighth seed. However, they defied all expectations and managed to reach the NBA Finals, thanks to an unforgettable playoff performance. This extraordinary journey catapulted players like Jimmy Butler into the spotlight, earning them household names like "Jimmy Buckets" and "Playoff Jimmy".
Butler has built a reputation for delivering standout performances during crucial moments and against formidable adversaries. His scoring abilities rival those of the top shooting guards in the league, making him a force to be reckoned with on the court. In addition, he showcased his defensive prowess by leading the league in steals in 2021.
1 LeBron James - 97
LeBron James' statistics are truly remarkable. As a four-time Finals MVP and champion, he has attended every All-Star game for an impressive nineteen consecutive years. Furthermore, his skills have only improved over time. In 2008, he led the league in scoring, and in 2020, he led the league in assists.
One might argue that he could be considered one of the best point guards in the game, and they wouldn't be entirely wrong. The Lakers often rely on his exceptional on-ball abilities. Those who doubted his abilities were proven wrong during the playoffs, where he showcased his dominant presence, reminding everyone that any team vying for a championship must face his formidable force.
NBA 2K24 will be available on September 8th, 2024 for Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.