Welcome to NSL end-of-season player rankings. Top 10 Small Forwards in the NSL Part 2    5 - 1 

This list ranks the top 10 Small Forwards in the NSL/NBA 2K23. These rankings are based partially on NBA 2k player overall rating and my opinion on how they fit within an NSL team structure.

No. 5 - Mikal Bridges - 87 - Nicknamed "the Warden," Mikal Bridges isn't just a player; he's a testament to consistency and commitment. With an active record for the most consecutive games played, having not missed a game in his NBA career since his entry into the NBA in 2018. As a two-way versatile player, he's a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court. Offensively, Bridges' prowess shines through his multifaceted approach. His shooting range stretches from beyond the arc to mid-range jumpers and rim-rattling dunks. A deft passer and ball-handler, he commands the court with finesse. This season, his career-high average of 16.0 points showcases his evolving offensive repertoire, including off-the-dribble escapades and mismatch exploits against undersized defenders. Defensively, Bridges' agility, body control, and a 7-foot-1 wingspan make him a nightmare for opponents. A master at preventing reliable plays from spiraling into defensive rotations, he's a stalwart wing defender who disrupts offensive flow.

No. 4 - Jimmy Butler - 95 - Nobody gets more out of their available talent than Jimmy Butler who exemplifies why hard work not only matters but is a whole separate skill set that not every player has. The 6�7�, 230 lbs wing who was drafted as the last player in the first round of the 2011 draft. Has managed to scratch and claw his way into being one of the best 2-way players in the game. A bon-a-fied clutch player who can rise to the occasion on the biggest stages. He may not be the most prolific scorer. But his ability to impose his will on a game is undeniable. As a defender, Jimmy just wears offensive players down until they make a mental mistake and do something stupid. As one of the best-conditioned athletes in the league, he can play at 100% from tip to buzzer. Even though the excess usage is starting to wear on is durability. You always know what you are getting when Jimmy Buckets suits up.

No 3. Jayson Tatum - 95 - The self-proclaimed �Kobe� disciple continues to improve each season and inch his way from one level to the next. Jayson is a superbly conditioned athlete at 6�8�, 210 lbs he has an excellent frame and continues to put in the work to get the most out of his athletic gifts. Priding himself on his skill work, Tatum is a relatively efficient scorer because he has worked on his jump shot and doesn�t just rely on his athleticism. His previous flashes of in-game dominance have started to come with a little more consistency. He is also a brilliant defender with a great balance of length and lateral quickness that allows him to stay between his man and the basket making him a handful to deal with for teams on both ends of the floor. Tatum is on the fringes of becoming a top 5 player.

No 2. Kevin Durant - 96 - The Slim Reaper AKA Durantula has been one of the most prolific players in the league for over a decade now. Standing tall at 6 feet 10 inches with a wingspan that seems to defy limits, Durant's athleticism harmonizes with his skill set, creating a symphony of on-court brilliance. Durant's scoring ability is unparalleled. His signature silky-smooth jump shot can be unleashed from anywhere on the court, with accuracy and speed that baffle defenders. This offensive grace is augmented by his basketball IQ�an innate understanding of the game that allows him to read defenses and orchestrate plays with precision. Durant's journey is an ode to dedication. Behind his extraordinary attributes lies an unrelenting work ethic. He continually hones his skills through rigorous training, both on and off the court. This commitment has helped him maintain his peak performance level over the years, resulting in a career defined by unwavering excellence. 

No 1. LeBron James - 96 � Nicknamed "King James", he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport and is often compared to Michael Jordan in debates over the greatest basketball player of all time. He is the all-time leading scorer in NBA and has won four NBA championships. LeBron's physicality is a defining aspect. Standing tall at 6 feet 9 inches and weighing 250 pounds, he's a force of nature on the court. His size, strength, speed, and agility create an imposing presence that can dominate any position. However, it's LeBron's versatility that truly sets him apart. He navigates the court with finesse, excelling in roles ranging from point guard to power forward. This unmatched adaptability makes him an enigma for opponents, causing matchup nightmares. LeBron's influence isn't limited to scoring; he's an all-around player. His playmaking finesse and scoring prowess, combined with his defensive acumen, form a complete package that few can emulate. From his exceptional physical attributes to his leadership on and off the court, James' athletic qualities and performances have solidified his status as a transcendent athlete.