Kevin Durant has been ranked as the third-best small forward in NBA history, according to HoopsHype’s Frank Urbina. This recognition comes amid a quiet NBA offseason and ahead of the September training camps, a period when discussions about the greatest players by position typically gain momentum. The list places Durant just behind LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers and Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics, highlighting his standing among basketball greats.

Urbina’s Analysis Highlights Durant’s Scoring Prowess and Defensive Impact

Urbina emphasizes Durant’s exceptional scoring ability, noting that

“scoring comes so easy for him that it’s almost ridiculous.”

Standing seven feet tall with impressive ballhandling and quickness, Durant pairs these physical gifts with a precise jump shot that threatens the basket from virtually anywhere on the court. Beyond his offense, Urbina points out that Durant contributes defensively by moving his feet quickly and blocking shots at crucial moments. Despite his career achievements, Urbina suggests Durant’s ranking might not rise further due to time missed from injuries.

Durant’s Unique Accomplishments in International and NBA Play

Durant holds a remarkable distinction in basketball history as the most decorated Olympic player, being the only athlete with four gold medals and the only star to earn MVP awards in the Olympics, NBA, and FIBA World Cup. His ability to seamlessly integrate into any team system has defined his NBA career, allowing him to efficiently dominate while playing alongside a variety of teammates. This versatility underscores his reputation as a plug-and-play player who knows how to maximize his opportunities on offense.

Underrated Defensive Skills Reinforced by Recent Performance

While Durant is widely celebrated for his offense, his defensive contributions are often understated. In the 2024-25 NBA season with the Phoenix Suns, he emerged as one of the team’s stronger defenders. Historically, his rim protection has been impressive, especially during critical moments such as the NBA Finals where he averaged 1.6 blocks in 2017 and 2.3 blocks in 2018. This aspect of his game solidifies his all-around value on the court beyond scoring.

Career Statistics Reflect Durant’s Longevity and Efficiency

Over 17 NBA seasons, Kevin Durant has maintained striking career averages, including 27.2 points, 7 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game. His defensive stats include 1.1 blocks and 1 steal on average, complementing his offensive efficiency marked by a 50.2 percent shooting from the field, 39 percent from three-point range, and an exceptional 88.2 percent from the free-throw line. His true shooting percentage stands at 62 percent, demonstrating sustained effectiveness throughout his career.

Impact of Ranking and What Lies Ahead for Durant

Being deemed the third-best small forward of all time solidifies Durant’s legacy within NBA history, reflecting both his offensive brilliance and his growing recognition as a capable defender. Despite past injuries limiting his ascent to the very top spots, his accomplishments—both domestically and internationally—will continue to shape his narrative as one of the greatest players to ever play the game. As training camps commence, basketball fans will watch closely to see if Durant can maintain his high level of play and possibly climb higher in future all-time assessments.