NBA Position Rankings: Top 10 Small Forwards for 2017

10. Chandler Parsons, Memphis Grizzlies

Say what you want about the $94.4 million contract Parsons signed this offseason. That is a lot of money and Parsons is not exactly the first player who springs to mind when saying “max contract.” But he had to do something to earn that moniker and earn that consideration.

Parsons is going to become a victim of contract expectations. But he did something to earn it. And is a better player than he often gets credit for.

Parsons averaged 13.7 points per game last year and shot a 57.1 percent effective field goal percentage. His previous three seasons, he averaged more than 15 points per game. For an offensively and shooting-starved team, Parsons is the perfect fit.

He has always been a player to fill the gaps. He can shoot 3-pointers at a good rate — 41.4 percent last year — and drive against rotations and close outs. He should have the support he needs with the defensive-minded players around him in Memphis. It is a good fit.

Health will always be a factor for Parsons though. He missed the last part of the season after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus. Injuries have been a major storyline to his career. And it was certainly enough to scare off some suitors for him this offseason.

Parsons though is still very good. He has good size and great shooting acumen, a skill that is somewhat rare for the small forward position.

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