The Toronto Raptors are lucky to be in possession of one of the absolute best small forwards in the game in OG Anunoby, as his blend of expert spot-up shooting, elite defense at multiple positions, and improving shot creation has made him an indispensable part of the future in Toronto.
Anunoby averaged 15.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game last year, and considering all of the obstacles that both he and the Raptors had to face in that timespan, he should be commended for his performance.
Anunoby is consistently ranked as one of the most underrated players in the league despite the fact that his play on the field warrants more consideration as truly elite. Even when compared to some of his rivals in the Eastern Conference, Anunoby comes out on top statistically.
For the purposes of this list, we’re ranking the starting small forward for each team. Which players in the East does Anunoby rank ahead of, and which players should he have in his sights as his eyes a breakout season?
Where does Toronto Raptors star OG Anunoby rank among East SFs?
15. Isaac Okoro, Cleveland Cavaliers
Okoro has the two-way skills to both emulate Anunoby in some respects and rise up this list. However, until he shows a bit more refinement on the offensive end, he has to rank near the bottom of the rankings while remaining on a Cleveland team that may not guarantee him a ton of shots.
14. Saadiq Bey, Detroit Pistons
Bey looks like a keeper after he arrived in Detroit following a draft day trade, as his 3-point marksmanship and solid defense give him a very high floor in this league. Though Cade Cunningham is going to dominate the show, Bey can prove to be a very valuable role player who helps the Pistons flourish.
13. Danny Green, Philadelphia 76ers
Danny Green said Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris both pushed hard to keep him in Philadelphia throughout the off-season, with Tobias calling him frequently up until he signed
— Kyle Neubeck (@KyleNeubeck) August 12, 2021
Green will never put up the best numbers from a statistical point of view, but he is one of those players that consistently contribute to a winning culture. With Ben Simmons at point guard and either Seth Curry or Tyrese Maxey at shooting guard, Green will be back to his usual 3-and-D stylings on the wing in Philly.
12. TJ Warren, Indiana Pacers
Warren was unable to replicate his tremendous bubble performance due to injury, as he played in just four games all year. While he could find it difficult to end up getting a high volume of shots, Warren’s scoring skill could make it easy for him to help Indiana make the postseason in a wide-open East.
11. Jonathan Isaac, Orlando Magic
Isaac is another player that will need to prove that he can still be as effective post-injury. An improving scorer and lockdown defender, Isaac will be a major part of the playoff team that Orlando hopes to build a few years down the line.