The League’s NBA Defensive Player of the Year Race 2024
As the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Race 2024 reaches its first major checkpoint, the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Race 2024 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. While some perennial candidates continue to dominate, several rising stars are forcing their way into the conversation with game-changing defensive performances.
This comprehensive defensive breakdown examines:
✔ The top 7 DPOY candidates through November
✔ Advanced defensive metrics that separate contenders
✔ How rule changes are impacting defensive strategies
✔ Underrated defenders making significant impacts
✔ Historical comparisons to past DPOY winners
With insights from coaches, players, and analytics experts, we provide the most complete picture of this year’s defensive landscape.
️ Top 7 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Race 2024
1. Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
Defensive Stats:
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3.8 BPG (1st in NBA)
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1.7 SPG
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96.3 Defensive Rating
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8.2 Defensive Win Shares
Impact:
The 7’4″ phenom is revolutionizing rim protection while showing unprecedented mobility for his size. According to NBA.com’s tracking data, opponents shoot just 39.1% when defended by Wembanyama at the rim – the lowest mark among high-volume defenders.
2. Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Defensive Stats:
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2.5 BPG
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12.3 RPG (3.2 defensive)
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97.1 Defensive Rating
Impact:
The 3-time DPOY continues to anchor the league’s top-ranked defense. Minnesota allows 8.7 fewer points per 100 possessions with Gobert on the floor.
For more defensive analysis, visit NBA Newsz’s advanced stats page.
Advanced Defensive Metrics Leaders
Defensive Player Impact Metrics (Through November):
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Victor Wembanyama (+5.3)
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Rudy Gobert (+4.9)
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Evan Mobley (+4.1)
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Bam Adebayo (+3.8)
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Draymond Green (+3.6)
Defensive Win Shares:
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Wembanyama (8.2)
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Gobert (7.9)
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Giannis Antetokounmpo (6.4)
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Wembanyama (96.3) -
Gobert (97.1)
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Mobley (98.4)
How Rule Changes Are Affecting Defense
1. Freedom of Movement Emphasis
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More restrictive defensive rules
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Perimeter defenders adjusting techniques
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Increased foul calls on hand-checking
2. Take Foul Penalties
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Transition take fouls now result in:
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One free throw
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Retained possession
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Has reduced intentional fouling by 37%
3. Coach’s Challenge Expansion
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Each team gets second challenge if first successful
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Has led to more defensive plays being reviewed
Underrated Defenders Making Noise
1. Alex Caruso (Chicago Bulls)
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Leads guards in deflections (4.1 per game)
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Opponents shoot 7.2% worse when guarded
2. Jaden McDaniels (Minnesota Timberwolves)
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Holding star wings to 41.3% shooting
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2.3 stocks (steals+blocks) per game
3. Derrick White (Boston Celtics)
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NBA’s best charge taker (0.8 per game)
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Elite help defender
Historical DPOY Comparisons
Best Rookie Defensive Seasons:
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David Robinson (3.9 BPG, 1.7 SPG)
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Hakeem Olajuwon (2.7 BPG, 1.2 SPG)
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Victor Wembanyama (3.8 BPG, 1.7 SPG)
Most DPOY Awards:
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Dikembe Mutombo (4)
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Ben Wallace (4)
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Rudy Gobert (3)
Rest-of-Season Predictions
Current DPOY Odds:
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Victor Wembanyama (-120)
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Rudy Gobert (+180)
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Evan Mobley (+600)
Factors That Could Decide Race:
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Team NBA Defensive Player of the Year Race 2024 rankings
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Highlight-reel blocks/steals
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National TV performances
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Narrative around Wembanyama’s historic season
For updated odds, check NBA Newsz’s awards tracker.
Key Takeaways
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Wembanyama could become first rookie DPOY
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Gobert remains gold standard for big men
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Wing defenders face tougher path to win
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Team success still heavily factors in voting
For daily defensive analysis, bookmark NBA Newsz.
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