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The versatility of the modern NBA game has created a construct of positionless basketball. Power forwards can now alternate as wings and in some cases play at the center.
Few traditional power forwards have maintained their roles in the NBA by providing the center with the help needed to protect the paint. Even so, forwards help spread the game and unclog the paint on offense.
With so much emphasis on shooting, power forwards in the NBA are gradually adding three-point shooting to their game. Others are also developing guard-like handles to help bring the ball up the court.
That said, let's look at the top ten power forwards heading into the 2021-22 NBA season.
#10 Kristaps Porzingis
Kristaps Porzingis did not have a great 2020-21 NBA season, especially in the playoffs. He played in only 43 games due to injury but successfully averaged 20.1 points. However, his playoffs performance was awful, as he did not provide sufficient help for Luka Doncic.
With that in mind, Porzingis will be looking to make a statement in the new season. His physique makes him a significant threat in the paint, but he can also spread the floor as he has a career average of .361 from three-point range.
#9 John Collins
John Collins had an exceptional 2020-21 NBA season, especially in the playoffs. He paired perfectly with Clint Capela to limit Joel Embiid's dominance in the paint, a factor that helped them reach the Eastern Conference Finals.
Collins initially turned down a $90 million four-year deal in the 2020 NBA offseason because he believed he was worth more. Although the Atlanta Hawks front office was hesitant to offer more then, his impressive performance in the 2021 playoffs propelled them to offer a deal in the ballpark of what the 24-year-old forward demanded.
The Hawks will be hoping for another go in the 22 NBA playoffs, and Collins will play a huge role in getting them there.
#8 Pascal Siakam
Pascal Siakam deservedly won the 2019 NBA's Most Improved Player award because of how much his game evolved that season. He was a big part of the Toronto Raptors'championship run as he averaged 19 points in the playoffs.
Although his performance in the 2020-21 NBA season did not follow the upward trajectory many expected, he was one of the Raptors' most reliable players. However, Siakam will undoubtedly improve in the 2021-22 season as the franchise looks to build the squad around him.
#7 Domantas Sabonis
Eyebrows were raised regarding Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner playing together for the Indiana Pacers. While there were offensive issues at times, the pairing was mostly successful.
Sabonis got his second All-Star nod in the 2020-21 NBA season. The 24-year-old has continued to improve his game, averaging career-high numbers in points (20.3), assists (6.7), and steals (1.2). He also recorded a double-double season for the second consecutive year.
#6 Tobias Harris
The Philadelphia 76ers' star, Tobias Harris, is an embodiment of the modern-day NBA power forward. He gives Joel Embiid enough room in the paint to operate but doesn't live behind the arc like a wing.
Harris' efficiency in the 2020-21 NBA season was phenomenal. He was more productive because the Sixers put together a team that fit his playing style. He had enough room to roam the middle of the floor, thanks to the introduction of Seth Curry and Danny Green, while also making occasional three-pointers.
Although Harris is yet to get the call to make his first-ever All-Star appearance, he put together an All-Star caliber campaign. He will play a significant part in helping the Philadelphia 76ers reach the 2022 NBA playoffs.
#5 Draymond Green
Some would object to Draymond Green making this list because of his inefficiencies on offense. However, when it comes to intangibles, not many possess more than him.
Green plays a significant role in running the Golden State Warriors' offense even though he is not a high-level scorer. He sets high screens and allows Stephen Curry to knock down 3's comfortably or drive against a slower big man.
Defensively, Green is the Warriors' anchor. He finished the 2020-21 NBA season in the running for the Defensive Player of the Year award and was named to the NBA All-Defensive team.
With his defensive abilities and high basketball IQ, the Warriors will re-claim their status as one of the top Western Conference teams, especially with the hopeful return of Klay Thompson.
#4 Julius Randle
Julius Randle was an absolute sensation for the New York Knicks in the 2020-21 NBA season. His efforts on both ends of the court earned him the 2021 NBA's Most Improved Player award.
The Knicks are confident that Randle is the man to lead them to another playoff run, and we couldn't agree more. He helped the Knicks finish 4th in the Eastern Conference, leading them to their first postseason feature in eight years.
Although Randle struggled in the playoffs, he will surely bounce back in the 2021-22 NBA season. A lot was asked of him in his debut postseason appearance, and he caved under the pressure.
#3 Zion Williamson
Zion Williamson was on course to win the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2020 but played only 24 games due to injury. However, he showed his abilities in the 2020-21 season and made his first-ever All-Star appearance.
Williamson still plays like a traditional power forward, as he is dominant in the paint and does not entirely embrace outside shooting. The 2021-22 season will be no different as 20-year-old is still working on improving his game.
Rumors have suggested Williamson is unhappy with the New Orleans Pelicans because of the quality of talent on the roster. The youngster would like to compete in the playoffs, but that looks unlikely in the 2021-22 NBA season as they failed to bring in elite talent in the 2021 offseason. Regardless, he is likely to better his career-high 27 points and 7.2 rebounds.
#2 Anthony Davis
Right from his days with the New Orleans Pelicans, Anthony Davis has been an incredible power forward. He is one of the best two-way power forwards in the NBA.
Injuries derailed his run in the 2020-21 NBA season as he played only 36 games for the LA Lakers. His absence also cost the Lakers their chance at contending for a back-to-back NBA title.
But if he can stay healthy, the LA Lakers have a decent chance of reaching the NBA Finals for the second time in three seasons. Davis has always been a top athlete, but playing alongside LeBron James has unlocked a new level for the 27-year-old.
Davis' versatility is also commendable, as he can play as a center with his 6"10 height and his 7"6 wingspan. He finished the 2020-21 NBA season, averaging 21.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists.
#1 Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Milwaukee Bucks to their first NBA title in fifty years and was named the 2021 Finals MVP. Coming off a record-breaking NBA Finals performance, he is undoubtedly the best power forward heading into the 2021-22 season.
Given Giannis' stacked resume, the 26-year-old doesn't look like he will be slowing down anytime soon. He has continued to improve on several aspects of his game as the year goes by. The most pressing is his free-throw shooting because of how much he gets sent to the line.
It will be exciting to see how Giannis leads the Bucks into the new season with hopes of contesting for a back-to-back championship. His elite athleticism and defensive prowess will play a crucial role in what will be another blockbuster NBA season.
