Tim Duncan, Kevin Garnett, and Dirk Nowitzki are three of greatest power forwards in the history of the NBA. The way they played the game revolutionized the position, considering each of them played it in their own unique way. They were each so versatile, that many NBA fans struggled to decipher whether they were centers or power forwards. Today’s power forwards have carried on their legacy of versatility. Some of the guys on my list are viewed by many others to be centers. I’m sure my list will change as depth charts solidify as well. If your favorite power forwards aren’t found below, chances are they already are on my small forward list. I’ll probably have to redo this list once depth charts are finalized before the beginning of the season.
- Anthony Davis- New Orleans Pelicans
Although Davis will probably shift to the center position next season, he has predominantly played power forward for most of his career. If you consider him to be a center, he is at the top of that list as well. He has the defensive versatility to compete with the best and a monster offensive game. The only knock on him has been his health. There are some who even consider Davis to be the best player in the NBA. When healthy, he is the best power forward in the NBA. - LaMarcus Aldridge- San Antonio Spurs
Not sure what Gregg Popovich put in the water, but LaMarcus Aldridge had himself an MVP candidate caliber bounce back season last year. When involved, Aldridge is as capable as they come. - Kevin Love- Cleveland Cavaliers
Love has been the scapegoat of the Cleveland Cavaliers for a few years now, which has lead the average fan to take Love’s greatness for granted. Love is the ideal player for any team in need of a player who can stretch the floor and rebound at a high level. While his individual pick & roll defensive ability may be a challenge for Love, he more than makes up for it on the offensive end. Now that he is the focal point of the team, many fans are hoping he returns to ‘Minnesota Kevin Love’ form. Per Sources’ Zeke seems to think he will.
4. Draymond Green- Golden State Warriors
With less veterans on the team at the center position, the Warriors are going to have to play Draymond or KD at the center position a whole lot more. While the tactic is very effective in the playoffs, we’ll see the effect of it in the regular season. Draymond Green can be anywhere from the second best PF to a top 10 PF on any given night. Critics love saying, “he’s a role player. He wouldn’t be anything if he wasn’t on the Warriors.” Well guess what? The fact is that he is on the Warriors, and will continue to be evaluated accordingly. While he is not as offensively gifted as Kevin Love, Draymond more than makes up for it on the defensive end. He is heart and soul of Golden State. Despite not being the best player on that team, he is their leader. Green’s tangibles are enough to earn him such a high ranking on my list.
5. Blake Griffin- Detroit Pistons
It wasn’t that long ago that Griffin was the best power forward in the NBA. As Per Sources fans know, Griffin has been one of my favorite players for years now. Griffin brings a remarkable set of handles and court vision to the power forward position. The Clippers were more than comfortable running the offense through Griffin when Paul was injured. If it weren’t for injuries, he would be second on my list. However, injuries continue to derail Griffin from the path of greatness. As a player who relies heavily on his athleticism, Griffin cannot afford to have any injuries, even minor ones. I am excited to see how he will do with a full season in Detroit.
6. Paul Milsap- Denver Nuggets
In my opinion, the Nuggets extremely underperformed last season. Milsap’s injury was a huge part of that. When healthy, Milsap has proven the ability to be productive on both sides of the court. If he can figure out how to fit in with Denver, Milsap can easily slide back into the top 5 spot. Playing next to Jokic should help him get there.
7. Serge Ibaka- Toronto Raptors
There have been rumors circulating around Ibaka’s real age as his productivity began to diminish over the last two years. Believe it or not, Ibaka is listed as 28 years old. Although he has not looked in prime form, Ibaka is still a productive member of the Raptors’ organization. He still has the ability to guard big men full court, and guard the pick & rolls. His blocks per game are down from over 3.5 to under 1.5, but he still contests shots frequently. He also can stretch the court on the offensive end.
8. Dario Saric- Philadelphia 76ers
The only reason Saric isn’t higher on this list, in my opinion, is the team fit. Saric is an up & coming talent, on a team with a lot of existing talent. Although Embiid often outshines Saric, Saric still has the ability to score and rebound at will when given the opportunity. He is only 24 years old as well. I expect Saric to continue to take the necessary steps forward in his development.
9. Lauri Markkanen- Chicago Bulls
Markkanen will be asked to play several positions with the Chicago Bulls next season. The young big man is exactly what every GM is looking for in today’s game. He’s a 7’0 forward who can shoot the three ball. Although he is young, he has shown signs of early improvement throughout his first year in the League. Production often comes down to opportunity, and he will have plenty of that in Chicago. Although, some people do wonder if the Bulls are competing too soon.
10. Kristaps Porzingis- New York Knicks
We all know this selection is not based on talent or ability. It’s simply based on health. I couldn’t disrespect the MVP candidate without putting him on this list. Get well soon Porzingis. I hope he plays next season.
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