Ranking the Atlantic Division Small Forwards: How Does Michael Porter Jr. Stack Up?

Porter was almost an All-Star last season in his first year as a Net.

Jan 14, 2026; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. (17) brings the ball up court against the New Orleans Pelicans during the first half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Last offseason, the Brooklyn Nets made a huge move when they acquired Michael Porter Jr. from the Denver Nuggets.

The deal sent fan-favorite Cam Johnson to Denver in a massive talent swap. With a lot to prove to a new fanbase, Porter impressed in Brooklyn. He led the way offensively and was nearly named an All-Star after a career year. Now entering year two as a Net and the final season of his contract, the pressure is on for Porter to perform.

Porter is one of many talented small forwards the Atlantic Division has to offer. But where does he rank among his peers in the division? After looking at the point guard and shooting guard positions last week, it's time to shift gears to small forward.

5. Paul George, Boston Celtics

Apr 30, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) reacts to his score against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Last season stats: 17.3 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.7 SPG, 39.2% 3PT (with Philadelphia)

George was one of the pieces sent back to Boston in the Jaylen Brown trade. The 36-year-old is coming off an injury-riddled season that limited him to just 37 games. In those games, he showed signs of his younger self on both ends of the court. He'll be asked to do a lot with the Celtics this season to help replace Brown. At this stage in his career, that may be too much to ask.

4. VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers

Mar 23, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Vj Edgecombe (77) reacts after his three pointer against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the fourth quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Last season stats: 16.0 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 4.2 APG,1.4 SPG, 35.4% 3PT

Edgecombe was a revelation as a rookie last season. He immediately looked like he belonged on an NBA court and played like a veteran. On both ends of the court, he brought a spark that helped the 76ers pull off a 3-1 comeback in the playoffs. With LeBron James and Brown in the mix, Edgecombe may see his overall numbers dip. But his importance to Philadelphia's long-term future is immeasurable.

3. Michael Porter Jr., Brooklyn Nets

Jan 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Brooklyn Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. (17) against the Phoenix Suns at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Last season stats: 24.2 PPG, 7.1 RPG, 3.0 APG, 1.1 SPG, 36.3% 3PT

Porter was excellent last season for a bad Nets team. He was the focal point of the offense, and his final stat line proved it. Everyone knew that Porter could score the rock, especially as a number one option. He showed a significant improvement in his play-making ability, which was a great sign. Entering the final season of his contract, he'll look to earn a big payday by helping the Nets take a big step forward.

2. Mikal Bridges, New York Knicks

Jun 5, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) brings the ball up court against the San Antonio Spurs in the second quarter during game two of the 2026 NBA Finals at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Last season stats: 14.4 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 37.1% 3PT

Bridges' impact on an NBA game goes far beyond the box score. His final stat line from last season may not jump off the page, but he was a pivotal piece for the eventual NBA champions. His two-way skill set makes him one of the more valuable wings in the league and a very important player for the Knicks. He should continue to be one of the best small forwards in the NBA this season.

1. Kawhi Leonard, Toronto Raptors

Apr 5, 2026; Sacramento, California, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Last season stats: 27.9 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.9 SPG, 38.7% 3PT

There are big off-the-court questions for Leonard at the moment, including whether or not the trade to Toronto even goes through. Assuming it does, the Raptors would have the best small forward in the division and one of the best in the league. Leonard was a top 15 player last season as he put together a dominant season and remained relatively healthy. While age is a concern, he should remain an elite player next season north of the border.