When it comes to discussing the NBA's best defenders of the 21st century, it's impossible to ignore names like Kawhi Leonard and Draymond Green. Kawhi Leonard, often referred to as "The Klaw," boasts a wingspan of 7 feet 3 inches, which gives him a substantial advantage on the court. His defensive prowess has earned him two Defensive Player of the Year awards, showcasing his ability to consistently shut down top scorers. In the 2014-2015 season, Leonard's defensive rating was an impressive 96.4, one of the best in the league. His combination of size, speed, and basketball IQ makes him a nightmare for opponents.
On the other hand, Draymond Green's impact as a defender goes beyond traditional statistics. While he may not lead the league in steals or blocks, his versatility allows him to guard all five positions effectively. In the 2016-2017 season, Green recorded a defensive box plus-minus of 5.0, indicating his significant contribution to the team's defensive efforts. His ability to switch on pick-and-rolls and disrupt passing lanes is unparalleled, making him a key asset for the Golden State Warriors' defensive schemes. I mean, who could forget his pivotal role in the Warriors' 2015, 2017, and 2018 championship runs?
Speaking of versatile defenders, it's hard to overlook Anthony Davis. Standing at 6 feet 10 inches with a wingspan of 7 feet 6 inches, Davis is a shot-blocking machine. In the 2017-2018 season, he averaged 2.6 blocks per game, leading the league in that category. His ability to alter shots in the paint often forces opponents to think twice before driving to the basket. This defensive presence was critical during the Los Angeles Lakers' 2020 championship run, where Davis averaged 1.4 steals and 2.1 blocks per game in the playoffs.
We can't discuss great defenders without mentioning Ben Wallace. An undrafted player who became a four-time Defensive Player of the Year, Wallace is the epitome of hard work and determination. During the 2001-2002 season, Wallace led the league with an astonishing 3.5 blocks per game and grabbed 13 rebounds per game. His defensive efforts were instrumental in the Detroit Pistons' 2004 championship victory, where they famously defeated the star-studded Los Angeles Lakers. Wallace's ability to dominate the paint made him one of the most feared defenders of his era.
Let's also give props to Rudy Gobert, the "Stifle Tower." With a towering height of 7 feet 1 inch and a wingspan of 7 feet 9 inches, Gobert is a formidable shot-blocker. In the 2019-2020 season, he posted a defensive rating of 100.2, one of the best among starting centers. His rim protection is second to none, often altering the opponent's offensive game plan. Gobert's defensive skills have earned him multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards, solidifying his place among the elite defenders in the league.
When discussing perimeter defenders, Tony Allen's name must come up. Known as "The Grindfather," Allen's tenacity and defensive mindset made him one of the best on-ball defenders. During the 2010-2011 season, he recorded 1.8 steals per game, showcasing his ability to disrupt the opposing team's backcourt. Playing a crucial role for the "Grit and Grind" Memphis Grizzlies, Allen helped the team earn a reputation for tough, physical defense. His defensive acumen was a significant factor in the Grizzlies' memorable playoff runs in the early 2010s.
Avery Bradley also deserves a mention when talking about elite perimeter defenders. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, Bradley's quickness and lateral movement allow him to stay in front of most guards. In the 2017-2018 season, he averaged 1.3 steals per game and earned a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team. Bradley's ability to apply pressure on the perimeter has made him a valuable asset for multiple teams, including the Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers.
One cannot overlook LeBron James when discussing the best defenders of the 21st century. While often celebrated for his offensive prowess, LeBron's defensive contributions are equally noteworthy. From 2009 to 2013, he was selected to the NBA All-Defensive First Team five times, demonstrating his ability to guard multiple positions. In the 2012-2013 season, LeBron posted a defensive rating of 99.8, showcasing his impact on that end of the floor. His famous chase-down block in the 2016 NBA Finals is a testament to his defensive instincts and timing, a play that helped secure the Cleveland Cavaliers' first-ever championship.
While talking about guards, Gary Payton II, son of Hall of Famer Gary Payton, has also made a name for himself as a defensive specialist. In the 2021-2022 season, he had a steal percentage of 3.4%, one of the highest in the league. Known for his tenacious on-ball defense, Payton II has carved out a role as a defensive stopper, often tasked with guarding the opponent's best perimeter player. His defensive contributions have been a key factor in the success of teams like the Golden State Warriors.
Patrick Beverley, known for his relentless defense, is another guard who excels on that end of the floor. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, Beverley's defensive rating of 106.2 during the 2019-2020 season might not seem eye-catching, but his impact goes beyond numbers. His ability to hound opposing guards and get under their skin has made him a valuable defender for teams like the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Clippers. Beverley’s intensity and defensive mindset often set the tone for his team's defensive efforts.
Last but not least, Joel Embiid's presence in the paint for the Philadelphia 76ers has been a game-changer. Standing at 7 feet with a wingspan of 7 feet 6 inches, Embiid is a force to be reckoned with in the paint. In the 2020-2021 season, he averaged 1.4 blocks and 1 steal per game, contributing to a defensive rating of 106.1 for the season. Embiid's ability to protect the rim and his agility for his size make him one of the best defensive centers in the league today.
In conclusion, these players have not only excelled individually but have also significantly contributed to the success of their teams. Their defensive skills, combined with their physical attributes and basketball IQ, make them some of the best defenders the NBA has seen in this century. Want more in-depth analysis and stats? Check out arena plus for the latest updates and insights on NBA players and more!