Wing of Greatness: The 10 most unstoppable small forwards of all time
By Paul Garwood
5) Elgin Baylor
Elgin Baylor is undoubtedly one of the greatest small forwards in NBA history. His impressive accolades, including 10 All-NBA 1st Team selections and 11 All-Star appearances, solidify his status as a basketball legend. Baylor's statistical achievements further highlight his greatness, ranking 27th in rebounds, 33rd in scoring, and 156th in assists in NBA history.
Known for his exceptional scoring ability and rebounding prowess, especially for a non-big man, Baylor revolutionized the small forward position with his athleticism and skill set. Despite his remarkable performances, Baylor's quest for an NBA championship remained unfulfilled, largely due to the dominance of the Boston Celtics during his era. Out of his seven Finals losses, six came at the hands of the Celtics, denying him the ultimate basketball achievement.
Baylor's impact on the game goes beyond his individual accomplishments. His influence transcended his era, paving the way for future elite wing players in the NBA. His legacy as one of the best wings in basketball history is further underscored by his equal number of All-NBA 1st Team selections as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, a testament to his consistent excellence and contributions to the sport.
Elgin Baylor's legacy as one of the greatest small forwards in NBA history is cemented by his unparalleled skills, numerous accolades, and lasting impact on the game. He will always be remembered as a trailblazer who set the standard for future generations of wing players in the NBA.