NBA Free Agency 2018: 5 best small forwards available

CLEVELAND, OH - JANUARY 20: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder defends against LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the game at Quicken Loans Arena on January 20, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kirk Irwin/Getty Images) /

4 of 5

DENVER, CO – FEBRUARY 01: Paul George #13 of the Oklahoma City Thunder reacts after making the game-tying three point basket against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center on February 1, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Timothy Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /

2. Paul George

Paul George is one of the best players in the NBA. There is no other way to say it. He is one of the best defenders in the league and is a very strong offensive player who has become a great shooter.

George was tied for the ninth most defensive win shares last year with 3.9 but that was only good for the 4th best total in his career. He does it by locking down his opponent and forcing turnovers. In isolation, he only allows 38% of shots against him to fall. Beyond that, George uses his long arms to get in the passing lanes, finishing with the second most steals last year. Teams aren’t able to be comfortable passing the ball while he is on the floor.

Offensively, George has an underrated ability to be a play maker. He wasn’t able to show it last year since he played with Russell Westbrook who dominated the ball. Westbrook led the NBA in assist percentage so George was unable to show that part of his game. However, he was able to to show his improved shooting. Last year, he shot a career high 45.4% of his shots from three point range and converted it at the highest rate he has had in a complete season with 40%.

Unless he teams up with #1 on this list, George will likely be the focal point of the team he joins, making them very happy.

Home/NBA