Ranking the 10 best available small forwards in NBA free agency

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Apr 16, 2023; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks (24) reacts during the second half during game one of the 2023 NBA playoffs against the Los Angeles Lakers at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports /

6. Dillon Brooks

The former Memphis Grizzlies is one of the most controversial players in the league. During the Grizzlies’ short playoff run, he put himself in the conversation by taunting LeBron James, calling the King old, and then failing to back up those comments on the court. Now, he is set to hit unrestricted free agency and the Grizzlies have already established that he will not be back in Memphis.

This was a less-than-graceful exit from the team that viewed him as their energizer, but Brooks still has plenty of qualities that make him an attractive free agent. While his attitude is not for everyone, Brooks will give his team his all every single game. Furthermore, his shot selection tends to be unwise but maybe that will change when he finds himself in a more mature and regulated environment.

Brooks’ biggest appeal in free agency is undoubtedly his defense. He is one of the best wing defenders in the game and can also take on guards. His matchup with LeBron might not have gone well this time around, but if Brooks is on your team, you can trust him to take on the toughest defensive assignment and make their life hell. Over the 2022-23 regular season, his assignments ranged from De’Aaron Fox and Stephen Curry to Brandon Ingram, for example.

Any team looking for a wing-stopper and passionate teammate should definitely consider Dillon Brooks.