NBA Award Predictions Roundtable: Defensive Player of the Year

By Kohl Rast

Apr 26, 2017

October 25, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) shoots the basketball against Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) during the third quarter at Oracle Arena. The Spurs defeated the Warriors 129-100. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /

2 of 4

Mar 27, 2017; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert (27) reacts to a call during the second half against the New Orleans Pelicans at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Jazz won 108-100. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /

Rudy Gobert

“The Utah Jazz allowed the fewest points per game (96.8) and Rudy Gobert was a major reason why. The numbers tell the story.

This has been a career year for Gobert, averaging 14 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks. How do those numbers translate to Utah’s success? Gobert also ranks second in Win Shares (14.3) and tenth in Offensive Win Shares (8.3). Considering Utah only averaged 100.7 points per game (28th), it’s clear that defense was an important part of their 50-win season.” –Emmanuel Dixon

“While I would love to give Kawhi the three-peat, I believe this year’s DPOTY award goes to Rudy Gobert. Gobert is the heart of the Jazz defense with 2.7 blocks and 8.9 defensive rebounds per game. Without his presence, there was no way the Jazz made it the 5th seed this season.” –Blake Heckel

“I have a lot of reasons for this one. 1) He has a great nickname – The Stifle Tower! 2) He’s the anchor of one of the league’s best defenses and puts fear into the hearts of anyone who thinks they have an open layup. 3) If he wins it means another year of watching Doc Rivers complain about DeAndre Jordan not winning this award even though statistically he’s a mediocre defender. 4) Draymond Green’s head might actually explode. 5) It would be the greatest thing to happen to the state of Utah since fry sauce.” –Shawn James

Next: Draymond Green