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NBA Player Rankings: Top 10 small forwards for 2016-17

By Tom West

Mar 7, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) drives to the basket against San Antonio Spurs guard Kawhi Leonard (2) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats San Antonio 99-91. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 7, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Paul George (13) drives to the basket against San Antonio Spurs guard Kawhi Leonard (2) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana defeats San Antonio 99-91. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 11, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) prepares to pass as he is defended by New York Knicks guard Landston Galloway (2) during the first half of the game at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 11, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Charlotte Hornets guard Nicolas Batum (5) prepares to pass as he is defended by New York Knicks guard Landston Galloway (2) during the first half of the game at Time Warner Cable Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /

9th place – Nicolas Batum

Now that Michael Kidd-Gilchrist is coming back for 2016-17 after playing just seven games last season, Nicolas Batum won’t be starting at small forward. He’ll likely start at shooting guard instead, taking some minutes at the three to help add more shooting in various lineups without MKG and to lead the second unit at times.

Batum put together such a well-rounded performance last season that he has to make the cut here. His 34.8 percent three-point shot could have been a touch higher, but he recorded career-highs in both points (14.9) and assists (5.8) per game.

The latter is especially impressive for a wing player, coming as a result of Batum’s comfort as a ball handler and the way he reads the floor to find good looks for teammates.

Batum’s shooting stroke, rebounding (6.1 per game), smart drives, post play and passing all helped the Charlotte Hornets score 4.6 more points per 100 possessions with him on the floor.

Adding Batum’s sound defense into the equation, and he really is one of the more complete wings in the NBA. That varied skill set and importance to the Hornets earned him a five-year, $120 million deal with them this summer.

He was worth it in the new market, and deserves to make this list thanks to his do-it-all (and do it all well) style.

Next: 8th place - One of the NBA's most overlooked players

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