Detroit Pistons: Top 5 small forwards in franchise history

Detroit Pistons top small forwards #2: Dennis Rodman

Dennis Rodman needs no introduction to this list, he’s arguably the most controversial athlete of all time. He’s known for many things, basketball being just one of them. In the Motor City he’s basketball royalty a Bad Boy legend. Long before the colorful hair, and documented Vegas trips he was “The Worm” well known and loved by Piston fans.

Dennis was a late bloomer being drafted in the second round at 25 years old. He wasn’t an instant starter he worked for everything. He earned the respect from a veteran team and flourished. On a team full of scorers running a guard oriented offense he did everything else. He became a success rebounding and playing defense. His raw athleticism earned national attention.

During his years with the Pistons Dennis built an extraordinary resume. From 1989-92 Rodman was first team All Defense with a third team All NBA selection for the Detroit Pistons. That’s just the beginning, during this time he accumulated two NBA titles, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, and led the league in rebounding.

He emerged as one of the best offensive rebounders the world has ever seen. In his seven seasons in Detroit he averaged four or more offensive rebounds five times. Giving him a offensive rebounding average of 4.4 a game with the Pistons. Doing this is mind boggling for the small forward position. In his ’92 season he received the rebounding title in Detroit when he averaged18.2 boards. He was well on his way to a Hall of Fame career at that point.

The Worm is probably the greatest defender in the history of the game. He guarded the likes of Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, and Magic Johnson in championship playoff series. His resume speaks for itself, it’s undoubtedly obvious his impact on winning in Detroit. The sacrifices he made to help the Detroit Pistons are honored in the rafters. Dennis “The Worm” Rodman you are the second all time small forward in Pistons history.