NBA Award Predictions Roundtable: Defensive Player of the Year

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Apr 15, 2017; San Antonio, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard Vince Carter (15) puts up a shot over San Antonio Spurs small forward Kawhi Leonard (2) during the first half in game one of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports /

Kawhi Leonard

“If I could have one player to shut down an opposing scorer, it would be Kawhi Leonard. Leonard’s huge wingspan and massive hands make him nearly impossible to get past when driving into the lane. DeAndre Jordan, Hassan Whiteside, and Avery Bradley are all excellent defensively, but Leonard is simply head and shoulders above anyone else in the NBA.” –Evan Siegel

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“Surprise Surprise, Kawhi Leonard is my vote for Defensive Player of the Year. He has great versatility while consistently locking up opposing teams best player. Team success also weighs in heavily for the Klaw’s case.” –Sam Casey

“In my mind, Kawhi Leonard has been and continues to be the most dominant individual defensive force in the league. Sure I can see the case for Rudy Gobert who has brought fear into the lives of many wayward travelers to the paint. And I understand fully that Draymond Green is not just a great defender but also capable of getting into the heads of his victims. But, my pick stays with Kawhi for sheer value.

There is no more valuable defensive player in the league than Kawhi. HIs versatility and length allow him to cause problems for ever position except for maybe center but Kawhi is used to guard the best player of the opposing team every single night. He is the best defender used to guard the most difficult position in the league and he excels at it. He is my pick for this and for MVP.” –Kohl Rast

Next: NBA Award Predictions Roundtable: Coach of the Year

There are spme great candidates for the award but only one player can come out on top. Who do you think it will be? The Stifle Tower? The Klaw? Or, DrayMagic? Wait and see when the awards are announced on June 26th.