Small forwards in the 2010s showcased versatility, taking on multiple roles effectively. Players like Paul George and Kawhi Leonard evolved into top-tier stars despite challenges. Kevin Durant emerged as the decade's most dominant scorer, impacting the league profoundly.
The 2010s featured small forwards who dominated the NBA in a variety of ways. Some used their superior strength and explosion to get to the rim, while others utilized unique shot creation to score from all over the court. As arguably basketball's most versatile position, many of the league's best threes were tasked with taking on the roles of multiple positions - and the best succeeded.
Plenty of small forwards from the 2010s were asked to fill specific roles for teams that featured guards and bigs, but others were looked to as the leaders and superstars of their respective franchises. In other cases, small forwards were positioned as featured scorers or all-around glue guys who helped their teams mesh. The most celebrated players of this era are the ones who could produce in every facet with no glaring weaknesses.
While an incredibly rare trait, a handful of small forwards from the 2010s showed that it is possible to lead effectively at both ends of the court, and have rightfully etched their names into the NBA's history books as a result. 10 Rudy Gay Rudy Gay was featured as an uber-athletic wing scorer for the "Grit 'N Grind" Memphis Grizzlies when the 2010s rolled around. Despite being the team's leading .