In a league where offense is stealing the spotlight more than ever, it’s the defensive stalwarts who lay the foundation for championship aspirations. From lockdown perimeter defenders to dominant rim protectors, each NBA team boasts a standout player anchoring their defense. Let’s delve into the single best and premier defender for each franchise during the 2024-25 season.
- Atlanta Hawks – Dyson Daniels
- Boston Celtics – Jrue Holiday
- Brooklyn Nets – Nic Claxton
- Charlotte Hornets – Mark Williams
- Chicago Bulls – Josh Giddey
- Cleveland Cavaliers – Evan Mobley
- Dallas Mavericks – Anthony Davis
- Denver Nuggets – Aaron Gordon
- Detroit Pistons – Jalen Duren
- Golden State Warriors – Draymond Green
- Houston Rockets – Dillon Brooks
- Indiana Pacers – Myles Turner
- Los Angeles Clippers – Kawhi Leonard
- Los Angeles Lakers – Dorian Finney-Smith
- Memphis Grizzlies – Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Miami Heat – Bam Adebayo
- Milwaukee Bucks – Giannis Antetokounmpo
- Minnesota Timberwolves – Rudy Gobert
- New Orleans Pelicans – Herbert Jones
- New York Knicks – OG Anunoby
- Oklahoma City Thunder – Luguentz Dort
- Orlando Magic – Jalen Suggs
- Philadelphia 76ers – Joel Embiid
- Phoenix Suns – Royce O’Neale
- Portland Trail Blazers – Toumani Camara
- Sacramento Kings – Keegan Murray
- San Antonio Spurs – Victor Wembanyama
- Toronto Raptors – Jakob Poeltl
- Utah Jazz – Walker Kessler
- Washington Wizards – Marcus Smart
Atlanta Hawks – Dyson Daniels
A growing presence in Atlanta, Dyson Daniels has quickly established himself as the Hawks’ defensive linchpin. Leading the league with an impressive 3.1 steals per game (110.8 defensive rating), Daniels’ anticipation and agility disrupt opposing offenses effortlessly. His defensive prowess isn’t just about numbers; it’s the relentless pressure he applies, making ball handlers second-guess every move.
Boston Celtics – Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday continues to epitomize elite perimeter defense for the Celtics (112.7 defensive rating), even if he is involved in some trade rumors. Averaging 1.1 steals per game, his ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt offensive schemes remains unparalleled. Holiday’s veteran savvy and tenacity set the tone for Boston’s defensive identity, making him a nightmare matchup for opposing guards. Hopefully, Jrue can continue to remain healthy and be a presence in the playoffs.
Brooklyn Nets – Nic Claxton
In the heart of Brooklyn’s defense stands Nic Claxton, an athletic paint presence. Averaging 1.5 blocks per game, Claxton’s timing and reach deter countless would-be scorers. His defensive rating of 111.7 underscores his significance, anchoring the Nets’ interior defense with poise and authority. Claxton’s emergence as a rim protector has been a bright spot in Brooklyn’s otherwise average campaign.
Charlotte Hornets – Mark Williams
Mark Williams has become the Hornets‘ defensive anchor, showcasing a blend of size and agility rare for his position. With 1.3 blocks per game, his presence in the paint alters opponents’ strategies, forcing them to think twice before attacking the rim. Williams’ defensive rating of 110.8 reflects his growing influence, providing Charlotte with a much-needed interior deterrent. His development on defense is a promising sign for the Hornets’ future, unless the Lakers come knocking again.
Chicago Bulls – Josh Giddey
A surprising yet effective defensive presence, Josh Giddey has brought versatility to the Bulls’ lineup. Averaging 1.2 steals and 0.6 blocks per game, his length and anticipation disrupt passing lanes and challenge shooters. Giddey’s defensive rating of 116.0 highlights his growing commitment on both ends of the floor, making him an integral part of Chicago’s perimeter defense. His ability to guard multiple positions adds valuable flexibility to the Bulls’ schemes.
Cleveland Cavaliers – Evan Mobley
Evan Mobley’s All-Star season has seen him evolve into a defensive juggernaut for the Cavaliers. With averages of 1.6 blocks and 0.8 steals per game, his versatility allows him to guard multiple positions effectively. Mobley’s defensive rating of 108.3 is among the league’s elite, underscoring his impact in anchoring Cleveland’s defense and he is a major contender for DPOY.
Dallas Mavericks – Anthony Davis
In a blockbuster move, Anthony Davis has brought his defensive mastery to Dallas, even if we have yet to see him compete at a high level due to his health. Averaging 2.1 blocks and 1.2 steals per game overall, his presence could transform the Mavericks‘ defense into a formidable unit once he gets fully healthy. Davis’ defensive rating of 107.6 reflects his ability to dominate on that end, providing both rim protection and perimeter versatility.
Denver Nuggets – Aaron Gordon
Aaron Gordon’s defensive versatility has been a linchpin for the Nuggets. Tasked with guarding positions 1 through 4, he averages 0.4 steals and 0.2 blocks per game but his impact comes outside the stat sheet. Gordon’s defensive rating of 107.1 highlights his integral role in Denver’s scheme, often taking on the challenge of neutralizing the opponent’s top scorer. His athleticism and commitment make him a crucial component of the Nuggets’ success in 2024-25.
Detroit Pistons – Jalen Duren
Jalen Duren’s emergence as the Pistons‘ defensive anchor has been a revelation. Posting 1.1 blocks per game, his growing shot-blocking instincts are getting stronger by the year. Duren’s defensive rating of 108.6 showcases his immediate impact, providing Detroit with a foundation to build upon in their rebuilding phase. His potential on the defensive end promises a bright future for the Pistons as he forms a nice target option for superstar Cade Cunningham.
Golden State Warriors – Draymond Green
A major contender for DPOY, Draymond Green remains the heartbeat of the Warriors’ defense. While averaging 1.5 steals and 1.1 blocks per game are impressive on the stat sheet, his intangible contributions—communication, positioning, and leadership—are invaluable. Green’s defensive rating of 108.0 is a testament to his enduring impact, orchestrating Golden State’s defensive schemes with unmatched acumen. Alongside Jimmy Butler III, Draymond’s defensive confidence has skyrocketed in the second half of the season.
Houston Rockets – Dillon Brooks
Dillon Brooks has brought a tenacious edge to the Rockets‘ defense since he joined the team. Averaging 0.8 steals per game, his aggressive on-ball defense sets the tone for Houston’s perimeter resistance. Brooks’ defensive rating of 99.8 reflects his relentless energy and commitment to disrupting opponents’ offensive flows. His fiery demeanor and defensive prowess have been catalysts for the Rockets’ competitive spirit as the second seed in the West (49-26).
Indiana Pacers – Myles Turner
Myles Turner continues to be a shot-blocking maestro for the Pacers, even if his future with the team is uncertain moving forward. Posting 1.9 blocks per game, his timing and positioning deter countless drives to the basket. Turner’s defensive rating of 105.4 underscores his pivotal role in Indiana’s defensive identity, anchoring the paint with authority.
Los Angeles Clippers – Kawhi Leonard
Kawhi Leonard is not the same player who once won two DPOY awards but he can still lock anyone up he puts his mind to. This season, he’s averaging 1.5 steals per game (SPG) and 0.5 blocks per game (BPG), underscoring his versatility on the defensive end. With a defensive rating (Def RTG) of 109.4, Leonard’s ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes continues to be invaluable for Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Lakers – Dorian Finney-Smith
A JJ Redick favorite, Dorian Finney-Smith has seamlessly integrated into the Lakers‘ lineup, providing a much-needed defensive presence on the wing. Averaging 0.9 SPG and 0.3 BPG for the season, his contributions go beyond the stat sheet, often tasked with guarding the opposition’s top scorer. His Def RTG of 116.8 reflects his impact in bolstering Los Angeles’s perimeter defense.
Memphis Grizzlies – Jaren Jackson Jr.
Jaren Jackson Jr. continues to be a defensive force for the Grizzlies, anchoring their interior with authority. Averaging 1.3 SPG and 1.6 BPG, his shot-blocking prowess deters would-be attackers. Despite a slightly elevated Def RTG of 110.7, Jackson’s rim protection remains a cornerstone of Memphis’s defensive strategy.
Miami Heat – Bam Adebayo
Bam Adebayo’s defensive versatility is a hallmark of the Heat’s success. With averages of 1.3 SPG and 0.7 BPG, he effectively guards multiple positions, from centers to guards. His Def RTG of 110.2 highlights his integral role in Miami’s defensive schemes, consistently challenging shots and disrupting offensive flows.
Milwaukee Bucks – Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s defensive capabilities are as expansive as his wingspan. Averaging 0.8 SPG and 1.2 BPG, his ability to guard all five positions makes him a nightmare for opponents. With a Def RTG of 109.2, Giannis’ blend of agility and strength is pivotal to Milwaukee’s defensive acumen although the team will likely struggle to counter that with elite offense with Damian Lillard out for the season.
Minnesota Timberwolves – Rudy Gobert
Rudy Gobert remains the most accomplished defender in the NBA, posting 1.4 BPG as a three-time DPOY winner. His presence in the paint forces offenses to reconsider their strategies. Complementing his shot-blocking with 0.8 SPG and a stellar Def RTG of 108.9, Gobert’s impact is a primary reason for Minnesota’s top-ranked defense.
New Orleans Pelicans – Herbert Jones
Herbert Jones has emerged as a defensive stalwart for the Pelicans, showcasing his ability to guard multiple positions. With 1.9 SPG and 0.5 BPG, his defensive stats are impressive, but it’s his relentless energy and anticipation that set him apart. A Def RTG of 119.1 underscores his growing reputation as one of the league’s elite wing defenders.
New York Knicks – OG Anunoby
OG Anunoby has brought a tenacious defensive mindset to the Knicks, often tasked with shutting down the opposition’s best perimeter player. Averaging 1.5 SPG and 0.9 BPG, his physicality and quick hands disrupt offensive rhythms. His Def RTG of 114.6 reflects his significant contribution to New York’s defensive identity.
Oklahoma City Thunder – Luguentz Dort
Luguentz Dort continues to be a defensive anchor for the Thunder. While his individual 1.1 SPG and 0.6 BPG may not lead the league, his on-ball defense and ability to guard elite scorers are invaluable. Contributing to Oklahoma City’s 2nd-ranked OPPG (106.9), Dort’s relentless pressure is a catalyst for the team’s defensive success.
Orlando Magic – Jalen Suggs
Jalen Suggs has stepped up as a defensive leader for the Magic one season after ranking top-10 in DPOY in 2023-24, using his athleticism to disrupt opposing backcourts. With 1.5 SPG and 0.9 BPG, his stats highlight his active hands and shot-contesting ability. A Def RTG of 108.0 indicates his role in Orlando’s improved defensive performance this season.
Philadelphia 76ers – Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid anchors the 76ers‘ defense with his imposing presence in the paint, if only he can stay healthy. Among all players on the team and even when he has only played 19 games, there isn’t a better defender on the Sixers. Averaging 0.7 SPG and 0.9 BPG, his ability to deter shots and control the boards is critical.
Phoenix Suns – Royce O’Neale
Royce O’Neale has provided the Suns with a reliable perimeter defender, a team that doesn’t have many stoppers. Often matching up against the league’s top scorers, his 2.2 SPG and 0.9 BPG have been essential in Phoenix’s defensive rotations. A Def RTG of 116.8 reflects his steady presence on the defensive end.
Portland Trail Blazers – Toumani Camara
Toumani Camara has been a bright spot in a rebuilding Trail Blazers squad, earning minutes through his defensive tenacity. The second-year forward brings length, hustle, and physicality to Portland’s perimeter defense, averaging 1.5 steals per game (SPG) and 0.7 blocks per game (BPG). His ability to switch onto multiple positions has been vital for a Blazers team that lacks a true defensive anchor in the paint, although Donovan Clingan could be the long-term answer.
Sacramento Kings – Keegan Murray
Keegan Murray has developed into Sacramento’s most reliable defender, taking on tough assignments on the wing and showing significant growth in his third NBA season. His length and quickness allow him to contest shots effectively, contributing 0.8 SPG and 0.9 BPG. The Kings hope Murray can continue to boost his 115.3 defensive rating moving forward.
San Antonio Spurs – Victor Wembanyama
Victor Wembanyama is already a defensive game-changer, living up to the generational hype in his second season. His 3.8 BPG led the NBA before an untimely health concern (blood clots) shut him out for the year. Opponents think twice before attacking the paint when Wembanyama is on the floor, and his 108.5 Def RTG was among the best for bigs this season.
Toronto Raptors – Jakob Poeltl
Jakob Poeltl continues to be Toronto’s defensive anchor, providing elite rim protection and rebounding. His 1.2 BPG and 1.2 SPG don’t tell the full story of his impact—he alters countless shots in the paint and is a key communicator on defense. While the Raptors’ overall defense has struggled (17th in OPPG), Poeltl’s 108.9 Def RTG is a testament to his ability to hold things together in the middle.
Utah Jazz – Walker Kessler
Walker Kessler has built on his impressive start to the season, solidifying himself as one of the league’s premier young rim protectors. He’s averaging 2.4 BPG, ranking among the top shot-blockers in the NBA, while also adding 0.6 SPG. With a Def RTG of 113.8, Kessler’s presence in the paint gives Utah a legitimate defensive foundation moving forward.
Washington Wizards – Marcus Smart
Even in a new uniform, Marcus Smart remains one of the most relentless defenders in the league. His 1.2 SPG and 0.3 BPG don’t fully capture his defensive value—Smart’s leadership, toughness, and ability to make game-changing plays are what set him apart. Though the Wizards are in the midst of a rebuild and rank near the bottom in team defense, Smart’s 115.4 Def RTG is respectable over the season.
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