April 02--Here's a look at the top candidates for NBA defensive player of the year.
1. Kawhi Leonard, San Antonio Spurs, SF
He's the best defender for the league's best defense. So a repeat performance should be academic. What makes Leonard so effective is his length and anticipation and ability to guard multiple positions. He can be suffocating with his individual, perimeter defense, then get physical down low if needed. That's a rare combination.
2. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors, PF
This energizer is part of a team that is not only having a historic season but changing the game. And Green's defensive abilities fit right into that. He plays center in certain lineups and anchors the Warriors' switching schemes while also possessing the ability to stymie post men far bigger and stronger than him.
3. DeAndre Jordan, Los Angeles Clippers, C
He and the Heat's Hassan Whiteside are the only two players to rank among the top four in both blocks and rebounding. Jordan gets the slight nod because he has played more games and more minutes and the Clippers defense is slightly better overall. Jordan's reputation as a rim protector transcends his 2.3 block per game; that's how much he discourages driving.
