In the world of basketball, there is a famous saying that defense wins championships. Yet, defense is often overlooked and not given the credit it deserves in NBA discussions. But fear not, as we are here to shed some light on some of the NBA’s top defenders. Today, our focus will be on the best defender from each team in the competitive Western Conference. If you’re looking for the Eastern Conference list, head over here.
Let’s kick things off with the Dallas Mavericks, where Dereck Lively has emerged as a defensive stalwart. As a rookie, Lively played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ title run, serving as a defensive anchor and rim protector with an impressive average of 1.4 blocks per game. His defensive prowess only improved in the playoffs, showcasing a drop in his defensive field goal percentage from 48.2 percent to 42.3. At just 20 years old, Lively’s future looks bright, and he is poised to be a dominant defender for years to come.
Moving on to the Golden State Warriors, we can’t overlook the impact of Draymond Green. Despite some decline in his public image in recent years, Green remains a force to be reckoned with on the defensive end. His unmatched versatility revolutionized modern defensive schemes, evident in his opponents’ shooting percentage of 43 percent last season. With a track record of eight All-Defensive team selections and a Defensive Player of the Year award in 2016-17, Green’s legacy as one of the greatest defenders in NBA history is secure.
Now let’s shift our focus to the Denver Nuggets, where Aaron Gordon has made a significant impact on the defensive end. Gordon’s presence has been instrumental in transforming the Nuggets’ defense, elevating them from 29th to 10th in the league. A versatile wing defender capable of guarding multiple positions, Gordon is a key asset in shutting down opposing offenses. His defensive prowess, as highlighted by CraftedNBA rankings, has the potential to propel the Nuggets to even greater heights in the upcoming season.
As we head to the Los Angeles Clippers, Kawhi Leonard stands out as a defensive powerhouse. Despite being past his prime, Leonard remains a top-tier two-way player with elite defensive skills. His impact on the defensive end is backed by advanced statistics, placing him in the 95th percentile for defensive plus/minus and recording 2.9 defensive win shares. With the departure of Paul George, the Clippers will rely heavily on Leonard to anchor their defense and lead them to success in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, defense may not always be the flashiest aspect of the game, but it is undeniably crucial to a team’s success. These standout defenders in the Western Conference are proof of that, showcasing their skills and making a significant impact on their respective teams. As we look ahead to the upcoming season, keep an eye on these defensive stars as they continue to shine on the court.
