The 2025-26 NBA season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years. Fans are eagerly watching which teams can challenge the Oklahoma City Thunder, who dominated last season with 68 wins and their first NBA championship. One position that can make or break a team’s success is power forward, and this year, the league has some incredible talent. These players are among the best power forwards in the NBA 2026, offering a mix of scoring, defense, and leadership that can change games in an instant.
Both conferences are highly competitive. In the Western Conference, the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Los Angeles Lakers, and Golden State Warriors are looking strong. Meanwhile, the Eastern Conference has teams like the Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Orlando Magic ready to compete for playoff dominance. As modern basketball evolves, versatile power forwards who can stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and create plays are crucial.
Table of Contents
List of 5 Best Power Forwards in the NBA 2026 Season
5. Pascal Siakam
Pascal Siakam continues to be one of the most underrated stars in the NBA. Now with the Indiana Pacers, Siakam has consistently shown that he can lead a team in scoring, rebounding, and defense. Last season, he earned the Eastern Conference Finals MVP, proving he can deliver in crucial moments.
With Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for the season and Myles Turner moving to the Milwaukee Bucks, Siakam’s role in Indiana has expanded. At 31, he combines experience, leadership, and athletic skill, making him an essential part of the Pacers’ title ambitions. Fans and analysts alike expect him to be among the best power forwards in the NBA 2026 due to his ability to influence games on both ends of the floor.
| Category | Stat |
| Points per Game | 26.5 |
| Rebounds per Game | 7.8 |
| Assists per Game | 4.1 |
| Field Goal % | 53% |
| Three-Point % | 34% |
| Steals per Game | 1.2 |
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4. Karl-Anthony Towns
Karl-Anthony Towns, often known as KAT, has mainly played center during his career. However, this season the New York Knicks are moving him to power forward alongside Mitchell Robinson. This strategic adjustment is designed to strengthen the Knicks’ defense while maximizing KAT’s offensive versatility.
A five-time All-Star, Towns played a crucial role in leading the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals last season. At 28, he remains one of the most dynamic big men in the league, capable of scoring inside, hitting long-range shots, and stretching defenses. His versatility makes him a top candidate among the best power forwards in the NBA 2026.
| Category | Stat |
| Points per Game | 27.3 |
| Rebounds per Game | 10.1 |
| Assists per Game | 4.0 |
| Field Goal % | 56% |
| Three-Point % | 38% |
| Blocks per Game | 1.4 |
3. Paolo Banchero
The Orlando Magic are counting heavily on Paolo Banchero to guide their young roster. Despite missing some time due to injuries last season, the 22-year-old increased his scoring average significantly and performed well under playoff pressure.
Paolo’s growth alongside teammate Franz Wagner is crucial for Orlando’s hopes of reaching their first NBA Finals. Known for his smooth shooting, playmaking, and versatility, Banchero is emerging as a top-tier power forward. His skillset and potential make him one of the best power forwards in the NBA 2026, with fans expecting him to become the cornerstone of Orlando’s franchise.
| Category | Stat |
| Points per Game | 21.8 |
| Rebounds per Game | 8.0 |
| Assists per Game | 3.5 |
| Field Goal % | 49% |
| Three-Point % | 33% |
| Steals per Game | 0.9 |
2. Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis returns to his most natural position at power forward this season. Recently traded to the Dallas Mavericks for Luka Doncic, Davis missed some games due to injury last season but remains a dominant force.
At 32, Davis still possesses elite skill, size, and experience, making him capable of controlling both ends of the court. With rookie Cooper Flagg joining the Mavericks, Davis is expected to take on a leadership role and push Dallas into serious contention in the Western Conference. His shot-blocking, rebounding, and scoring ability solidify his position as one of the best power forwards in the NBA 2026.
| Category | Stat |
| Points per Game | 25.0 |
| Rebounds per Game | 11.2 |
| Assists per Game | 2.8 |
| Field Goal % | 54% |
| Three-Point % | 31% |
| Blocks per Game | 2.3 |
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo is already regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. At 30, the Milwaukee Bucks star is entering the prime of his career, having averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists last season while shooting 60% from the field.
Nicknamed the Greek Freak, Giannis combines size, athleticism, and skill in a way few players ever have. His dominance on both offense and defense makes him nearly unstoppable, and he is clearly the No. 1 choice among the best power forwards in the NBA 2026. Regardless of how the Bucks perform as a team, Giannis’ individual impact is unmatched, and he will be the focal point of Milwaukee’s championship hopes.
| Category | Stat |
| Points per Game | 30.4 |
| Rebounds per Game | 11.9 |
| Assists per Game | 6.5 |
| Field Goal % | 60% |
| Three-Point % | 28% |
| Steals per Game | 1.2 |
FAQs
1. Who are considered the best power forwards in the NBA 2026?
The top 5 best power forwards in the NBA 2026 are Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis, Paolo Banchero, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Pascal Siakam. These players are known for their scoring, defense, and versatility.
2. What makes a power forward one of the best in the NBA?
A great power forward is versatile, can score both inside and outside, rebound effectively, defend multiple positions, and contribute as a team leader. Players like Giannis and Davis excel in all these areas.
3. Which young players are rising as top power forwards in 2026?
Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic) is the young star among the best power forwards in the NBA 2026. At 22, he has already improved his scoring and playmaking ability and is expected to become a future cornerstone for his team.
4. How does the power forward position impact NBA teams?
The power forward position is crucial because these players can score, defend, and help control the game on both ends. A versatile power forward can stretch the floor, grab rebounds, block shots, and create plays, often deciding close games or playoff series.