When we talk about top-notch defenders in the NBA right now, several names spring to mind immediately due to their impressive stats and undeniable impact on the game. Take Giannis Antetokounmpo, for instance. At 6'11" with a wingspan of 7'3", he embodies a defensive juggernaut. Last season alone, he averaged 1.2 steals and over a block per game. That doesn't just speak volumes about his ability to read the game but also his sheer physicality and anticipation.
Another beast on the defensive end has been Rudy Gobert. This three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year consistently paints a picture of what an anchor should be. His 2020-2021 season saw him averaging a whopping 2.7 blocks per game, not to mention his role in contesting shots left and right. How many shots did opponents actually shy away from attempting in the paint, simply because of his presence? Plenty, if you look at the footage and defensive metrics.
Marcus Smart is someone who you can’t overlook. The reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year doesn't put up huge block numbers like Gobert, but his tenacity and versatility are second to none. In the last season, he averaged 1.7 steals per game. Numbers aside, just watch him disrupt offensive schemes, and you’ll understand why he’s crucial for the Boston Celtics. His defensive rating often sits among the league’s best, which is a testament to how he influences the game without necessarily stuffing the stat sheet.
Matisse Thybulle is a name that might not be as household as the previous ones, but he's making waves, especially when you look at per-minute efficiency. In the 2021-2022 season, Matisse averaged an impressive 1.8 steals and 1.1 blocks per game, despite playing less than 25 minutes per game. His 6'5" frame allows him the versatility to guard multiple positions, and that showcases his importance on the defensive end.
The young Jaren Jackson Jr. is also rising in the ranks quickly. With an average of 2.3 blocks per game last season, he has become a key player for the Memphis Grizzlies in just a few seasons. Defensive ratings don’t lie. His 2021-2022 defensive rating placed him among the top defenders in the league, cementing his status as someone to watch in the coming years.
Then there’s Kawhi Leonard. His two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards don't even scratch the surface of his defensive prowess. Despite injuries, his per-game impact remains undeniable. In the season before last, he averaged 1.6 steals per game. His ability to shut down the opponent’s best player is often reflected in his defensive win shares, consistently among the highest in the league.
Bam Adebayo is another game-changer. With a defensive versatility that has seen him guard every position on the floor, his role for the Miami Heat cannot be overstated. In the 2020-2021 season, Bam averaged 1.0 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. His Defensive Player Impact Plus-Minus (D-PIPM) often ranks him among the top players, which tells you how metrics solidify his defensive impact.
Ben Simmons, despite his offensive struggles, remains a powerhouse defensively. Before sitting out the entire last season, Ben was averaging 1.6 steals per game in the 2020-2021 season and carrying one of the best defensive box plus/minus (DBPM) ratings among guards. His size and agility make him a nightmare matchup for offensive players.
To understand the caliber of Draymond Green, look no further than his entire career trajectory. He has been a cornerstone for Golden State Warriors' multiple championship runs, largely due to his defensive work. His 2020-2021 season showcased his ability to still be a menace, with a defensive rating among the best in the league. His ability to guard all five positions makes him invaluable.
Another significant name is Jrue Holiday. When the Milwaukee Bucks needed a lockdown defender during their championship run, Jrue stepped up, averaging 1.6 steals per game during that crucial period. This demonstrates his ability to perform defensively when it matters the most, elevating his status among peers.
Remember the name Myles Turner. Averaging a league-leading 3.4 blocks per game in the 2020-2021 season, Myles proved himself as a true rim protector. His defensive field goal percentage is often among the best, indicating his ability to alter shots and make opponents think twice.
Finally, consider the consistency of Anthony Davis. Despite battling injuries, his defensive per-game stats, like frequency and effectiveness in blocks (averaging 2.3 per game last season), make him a towering presence for the Lakers. His defensive win shares, like those of other greats, highlight how valuable he is when healthy and on the floor.
These players bring different styles and moments to the court, each affecting the game in unique ways.
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