The Best Los Angeles Lakers Small Forwards of All Time
Big fan of Los Angeles basketball? Then check out this list of Los Angeles Lakers small forwards. It includes almost every small forward from throughout Los Angeles Lakers history, including current small forwards and past ones. Featuring some of the greatest NBA small forwards of all time, the best Lakers SFs include Elgin Baylor, Lebron James, James Worthy, Jamaal Wilkes, and Eddie Jones.
In the 2021-22 NBA season, the current LA Lakers starting SFs and backup SFs are Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Talen Horton-Tucker, and Kent Bazemore.
Who are the best small forwards in Los Angeles Lakers history? Vote below and help decide the greatest Los Angeles Lakers small forwards of all time!
- 1
Los Angeles Lakers: 1982–1994
Perfectly living up to his nickname "Big Game James," this dynamic small forward was selected by the Lakers with the first overall pick in the 1982 NBA Draft. During his time on the team, Worthy played a key role in securing three NBA Championships thanks to his explosive scoring and unmatched athleticism. His iconic performance in Game 7 of the 1988 Finals earned him the coveted Finals MVP award, making him an indelible part of Lakers history.
- Birthplace: USA, Gastonia, North Carolina
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Small forward
- 2
Los Angeles Lakers: 1958–1972
As one of the most gifted athletes ever to wear the purple and gold, Elgin Baylor was drafted by the Minneapolis Lakers in 1958, a year before their transition to Los Angeles. With an exceptional skill set for a small forward, Baylor's smooth ball-handling, relentless drive, and jaw-dropping acrobatics often left his opponents in the dust. Though he never won a championship during his tenure with the team, Baylor earned 11 NBA All-Star selections and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1977.
- Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Small forward
- 3
Los Angeles Lakers: 2018-2022
Undoubtedly one of the most influential players in NBA history, LeBron James joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018, after signing a four-year contract. This versatile small forward has a unique ability to adapt to any playing style, making him a true force on the court. In addition to his impressive individual accolades, including four NBA MVP awards and two Olympic gold medals, James led the Lakers to their 17th Championship title in 2020, further cementing his legacy as a Laker legend.
- Birthplace: Akron, Ohio, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Team: Los Angeles Lakers
- Position: Power forward
- 4
Los Angeles Lakers: 1977–1985
Drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1974, it wasn't until a trade in 1977 that Jamaal Wilkes put on the iconic Lakers jersey. Known for his silky-smooth jumper, outstanding defense, and deceptive quickness, this versatile small forward quickly became a fan favorite. With Wilkes' help, the Lakers claimed three championships during the early 1980s, and he would later be enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 2012.
- Birthplace: USA, California, Berkeley
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Shooting guard, Small forward
- 5
Los Angeles Lakers: 2004–2011
After being traded to the Lakers in 2004, Lamar Odom quickly became instrumental in re-establishing the team's dominance. With his unique blend of size, skill, and versatility, this small forward was able to excel in a multitude of roles for the team. Winning back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010, Odom also earned the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award in 2011, solidifying his place in Lakers lore.
- Birthplace: Jamaica, New York, USA
- Nationality: United States of America
- Position: Small forward, Power forward
- 6
Los Angeles Lakers: 1998–2000
Acquired by the Lakers in a blockbuster trade in 1999, Glen Rice brought his deadly shooting touch to the storied franchise. Known for his quick release and remarkable accuracy, Rice proved to be a vital piece in the Lakers' offensive arsenal. Although his time with the Lakers was relatively brief, he played a key role in securing the team's first championship of the Kobe-Shaq era in 2000.
- Birthplace: Jacksonville, Arkansas
- Nationality: American
- Team: Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, Charlotte Hornets, New York Knicks, Houston Rockets
- Position: Shooting guard, Small forward
