In NBA 2K26 MyTeam, small forwards play a critical role in both offense and defense. Whether you're looking for a versatile scorer, a defensive stopper, or a hybrid option with NBA 2K26 MT, knowing which small forwards perform best in today’s meta can give your team a significant edge. After extensive testing and analysis, we’ve compiled a tier list of top small forwards, ranging from Galaxy Opals to Amethysts, to help you make informed decisions when building your lineup.
S Tier Small Forwards
Starting at the top, the Galaxy Opal tier features some of the most dominant small forwards in the game. Jason Tatum deserves a spot here. Despite initial skepticism, Tatum’s release is exceptionally reliable, and his 6’8” height paired with 68 defensive rating makes him both a scoring threat and a solid perimeter defender. Another standout is LeBron James, who, as a small forward, combines elite speed, defense, and a highly efficient quick release, making him a no-brainer choice for any lineup. Kawhi Leonard, with his exceptional catch-and-shoot ability and lockdown defense, also earns S tier status. Finally, Galaxy Opal Julius Randle and Lamar Odom round out the top tier, offering solid versatility with strong physical attributes and balanced offensive and defensive skills.

A Tier Small Forwards
A tier small forwards are highly effective but may lack the slight edge that S tier players have. Larry Johnson is a solid pick with a 6’7” frame and strong defensive capabilities, while Draymond Green, at 6’6”, offers unique defensive versatility with a reliable shooting option if used correctly. Danny Granger, with a maxed three-ball and solid driving dunk, also fits here, along with Tom Gugliotta and Cooper Flagg, who are effective shooters and capable defenders. KD earns A tier consideration due to his quick release and solid defensive stats, although he may not shine as brightly as some of the top-tier forwards. Shawn Marion deserves recognition here too; his speed, dunking ability, and defensive versatility make him borderline S tier, though badge limitations prevent him from claiming the top spot.

B Tier Small Forwards
B tier includes solid options who can contribute effectively but may have limitations in height, release speed, or defensive impact. Andrew Wiggins fits well here, offering reliable scoring and defense. Aaron Gordon, Jonathan Isaac, and OG Anobi also provide balanced options, with strong defensive stats but slightly inconsistent shooting. Diamond Rui Hachimura and Joe Smith are playable B tier cards as well, though they may struggle against more elite opponents. These players are excellent for budget lineups or as rotation pieces but may not dominate in high-level online competition.

C Tier Small Forwards
C tier players are situational, usable in limited circumstances but with clear drawbacks. Lu Deng, DeAndre Hunter, and Trevor Ariza fall into this category due to slower releases or inconsistent offensive impact. Pasa and Bailey also belong here; while defensively competent, their offensive game can be limited. These cards are best for offline modes or as filler pieces in MyTeam lineups.

D Tier Small Forwards
Finally, D tier consists of small forwards who generally underperform and have limited utility in most competitive settings. Dennis Rodman, MPJ, Anton Jameson, and Cam Johnson struggle due to poor releases, limited offensive versatility, or low overall stats. These cards are primarily useful for completing challenges or experimenting in low-stakes games but are not recommended for serious competitive play.

Conclusion
Ranking small forwards in NBA 2K26 MyTeam requires a careful balance of height, defense, shooting, and badge effectiveness. While Galaxy Opals dominate, A and B tier options remain valuable for balanced lineups or budget-conscious players. C and D tier cards are situational but can fill gaps in your roster. Ultimately, the best small forward for your team will depend on your playstyle, whether you prioritize defense, shooting, or versatility.By using this tier list, you can confidently build a MyTeam squad capable of competing at the highest level. Experiment with combinations to Buy NBA 2K MT, test player releases in-game, and adjust based on your strategic needs. With the right small forward, your team’s performance can reach new heights in NBA 2K26.