Victor Wembanyama Leads the 2024/25 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Race
As the 2024/25 NBA season progresses, defense is making a significant impact, with several players making a case for the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award. While Victor Wembanyama continues to dominate headlines as the top defensive player, several other stars are emerging as strong contenders for the prestigious honor.
1. Victor Wembanyama – San Antonio Spurs
Victor Wembanyama remains the clear frontrunner for DPOY, continuing his dominant defensive presence on the court. The former No. 1 pick leads the league in blocks per game for the second consecutive season, averaging nearly four per game. Wembanyama has recorded three or more blocks in three of his last five games, including a stunning eight-block performance against the Chicago Bulls, solidifying his position at the top of the rankings.
2. Dyson Daniels – Atlanta Hawks
Dyson Daniels holds steady in the No. 2 spot, further proving himself as one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders. Daniels leads the league in steals, averaging 3.1 steals per game over 33 games played. In his last three outings, Daniels has accumulated 13 steals, highlighted by a five-steal performance in just 31 minutes against the Los Angeles Lakers.
3. Anthony Davis – Los Angeles Lakers
Anthony Davis continues to be one of the most impactful defenders in the league, though he’s yet to win a DPOY award. With 2.1 blocks per game, Davis ranks third in the league and has been a force on defense, even as the Lakers have faced struggles. Despite the team’s recent losses, Davis recorded a total of seven blocks in two games, showing that his defensive dominance is still very much intact.
4. Giannis Antetokounmpo – Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the reigning DPOY winner, remains a strong contender for another defensive accolade this season. The Milwaukee Bucks star has been a constant defensive presence, tallying six blocks in his last four games and recording five steals in three of those outings. His two-way play continues to anchor the Bucks’ success, making him a key figure in the DPOY conversation.
5. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Oklahoma City Thunder
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has earned MVP consideration, but his defensive efforts are equally impressive. The Oklahoma City Thunder star is one of only three NBA players averaging at least two steals per game, regularly contributing blocked shots as well. In a recent game against the Boston Celtics, SGA posted 33 points, three steals, and two blocks, showcasing his all-around brilliance on both ends of the court.
As the season unfolds, these players are setting the standard for defensive excellence in the NBA, and the race for DPOY promises to be exciting.