10 best small forwards in NBA 2k25

NBA 2k25 is here, and it's time to break down the best small forwards in the game. They are usually the most versatile on the floor, placing emphasis on a nice balance of scoring, defense, and playmaking. This year's edition sets up a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, bringing varied skills with which to make any team different.

With that said, here are the top 10 small forwards in NBA 2k25, ranked by overall rating and key attributes.

Note: The entries are based on each player's NBA 2K25 overall rating.

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Exploring the 10 best NBA 2k25 small forwards

1) Paul George - Philadelphia 76ers

Paul George as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: SG/SF
• Overall Rating: 89
• 3-Point: 85
• Dunk: 85

Nicknamed "PG-13," Paul George is one of the more complete small forwards in the league. The overall ranking of 89 speaks for itself: he has the ability to contibute on either end of the floor. George is an efficient three-point shooter and dunks the ball well, making him a double threat on offense.

On the other end, his keen eye for defense makes him a player not to be trifled with. His versatility as both a shooting guard and small forward gives players flexibility in their lineup choices.

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2) Paolo Banchero - Orlando Magic

Paolo Banchero as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: PF/SF
• Overall Rating: 89
• 3-Point: 81
• Dunk: 85

Paolo Banchero is slowly making his presence known in real life and in NBA 2k25. With an overall rating of 89, the 2023 NBA Rookie of the Year is a star in the making. His size and skill set enable him to be dominant in multiple aspects of the game.

Banchero, who can extend the floor with his 3-point shot and also at the rim with great force, is a nightmare at the small forward position, particularly in transition and fast-action games.

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3) Jimmy Butler - Miami Heat

Jimmy Butler as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: SF/PF
• Overall Rating: 89
• 3-Point: 83
• Dunk: 80

With an overall rating of 89, Jimmy Buckets is a proven leader and a clutch performer. Butler is great defensively, and his mental toughness is a strength. His 3-point shooting and dunks are not the most highly graded on this list, but few can deliver like him.

In NBA 2k25, Butler is a go-to player in critical moments, capable of taking over games when it matters most.

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4) Kawhi Leonard - Los Angeles Clippers

Kawhi Leonard as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: SF/PF
• Overall Rating: 92
• 3-Point: 85
• Dunk: 80

Kawhi Leonard, aka "The Klaw," is probably the best two-way player in the game right now. His 92 overall is a nod to just how elite he can be on both ends of the floor; he can score from anywhere on the court.

Leonard's 85 in three-point shooting makes him a threat from deep, while those defensive attributes make sure he is able to lock down just about any opponent. Kawhi's all-around game enables him to be one of the most vital pieces that any lineup could possess in NBA 2k25.

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5) Jaylen Brown - Boston Celtics

Jaylen Brown as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: SG/SF
• Overall Rating: 92
• 3-Point: 83
• Dunk: 96

Jaylen Brown's explosive athleticism and scoring ability are well-represented in NBA 2k25. With an overall rating of 92, Brown is among the most dynamic small forwards in the game. His 96 dunk rating highlights his abilities to finish with authority, while 83 from beyond the arc ensures defenders don't shackle him.

Since Brown is capable of both-shooting from a guard position and playing as a small forward. Simply put, he is a help to any team.

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6) Anthony Edwards - Minnesota Timberwolves

Anthony Edwards as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: SG/SF
• Overall Rating: 93
• 3-Point: 86
• Dunk: 97

"Ant-Man" is quickly becoming one of the most exciting players to watch in NBA 2k25. Anthony Edwards boasts a 93 overall rating with an incredible 97 dunk rating that has him nearly unstoppable when driving to the basket.

His 86 rating from deep means he is just as dangerous on the perimeter. Edwards' athleticism and scoring ability make him a perfect fit for players who like to attack the rim and shoot from a distance.

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7) Kevin Durant - Phoenix Suns

Kevin Durant as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: PF/SF
• Overall Rating: 94
• 3-Point: 92
• Dunk: 85

Kevin Durant continues to be one of the most lethal scorers in the NBA, and NBA 2k25 reflects that with his 94 overall rating. Durant’s 92 3-point rating, combined with his ability to dunk and handle the ball, makes him a nightmare for defenders.

KD’s versatility as both a power forward and small forward allows players to utilize his scoring prowess in multiple positions, making him one of the most valuable players in the game.

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8) Jayson Tatum - Boston Celtics

Jayson Tatum as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: SF/PF
• Overall Rating: 95
• 3-Point: 87
• Dunk: 89

Jayson Tatum has proved himself as one of the elites, and his 95 overall in NBA 2k25 is a real reflection of his all-around performance. Tatum’s ability to score from all levels, combined with his 87 3-point rating and 89 dunk rating, makes him a versatile offensive weapon.

His playmaking and defensive skills add another layer to his game, making Tatum a complete player in every sense.

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9) LeBron James - Los Angeles Lakers

LeBron James as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: SF/PF
• Overall Rating: 95
• 3-Point: 85
• Dunk: 89

Even at this stage in his career, LeBron James is one of the best small forwards in NBA 2k25. An overall rating of 95 reflects just how long he's managed to stay at or near the top. Rated an 85 from beyond the arc-with an 89 dunk rating, LeBron still remains an absolute force in transition and in the half-court.

His high basketball IQ and experience combined with great passing and leadership make him an extremely important player to have on the roster, especially in clutch situations.

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10) Giannis Antetokounmpo - Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis Antetokounmpo as seen in the game (Image via Visual Concepts)

• Position: PF/SF
• Overall Rating: 97
• 3-Point: 68
• Dunk: 91

Easily one of the best on this list, Giannis "Greek Freak" Antetokounmpo comes with an overall rating of 97. Giannis is truly a physical specimen, boasting an astounding 91-rated dunk rating that makes him nearly unguardable every time he drives to the rim.

Although his 3-point rating is considerably lower at 68, his paint-dominating ability, paired with his defense, seals his status as the best small forward in NBA 2k25. Giannis' versatility means that he can play not only one position, but several. The combination of size, speed, and strength in him is singular; every team needs that player.