Top Players by Position (SFs)

When talking about small-forwards, we all usually think about players who can do a little bit of everything: scoringin different ways, passing, defending and rebounding. But, what do the top three SFs do that separates them from the rest? The answer is easy: leading. Here are my picks:

3- Scottie Pippen: sorry for Kevin Durant, but Pippen is, in my eyes, the third best and most complete small forward that ever played. His complete domination of every facet of the game, his team work alongisde MJ and, most importantly, his six NBA titles put him in the top three. He was the perfect Robin for the best Batman ever. He knew how to sacrifice personal stats for the ultimate glory, which is winning, and he did just that. It worked pretty well for him,.

2-Julius Erving: the Doctor was one of the most finesse players to ever step onto the court. He played both in the ABA and the NBA, He was NBA MVP in 1981 and NBA champion in 1983 with the Sixers, losing only one game in the whole playoffs. His career averages are not too shabby either: 22 points, four assists and six rebounds. A true icon and an inspiration for the guards that came to the league after him, due to his flashy style and athleticism.

1-Larry Bird vs LeBron James: here´s the most difficult part to decide. Who is better? Larry "Legend" played for 12 seasons, won three titles and three MVPs. He was not very athletic, but he was as smart as anyone. Lebron, on the other side, is the most phisically gifted player in history, right there with WIlt. In 10 seasons, "The Chosen One" has gotten two championships, four trips to the Finals and four MVPs. When you compare the stats, you find that Bird is a better shooter and rebounder (50%>48%; 10.2>7.0), while the Heat forward is a better passer and scorer ( 6.8>5.6; 27>24), as well as a most efficient defender. All in all, i believe that Bird, as of now, still edges LeBron. But that could change in the next couple of years, specially if James adds another ring to his already impressive resume.