15 days from the end of the regular season, the debates on trophies are multiplying, and one of the most interesting concerns that of best defender of the year. In 2021, Rudy Gobert recovered his trophy, and the Frenchman can match Ben Wallace’s record this year with a 4th award.
But for several weeks, voices have been raised to minimize its impact and its qualities, especially from players playing on the outside. To start with Marcus Smart. Three weeks ago, the leader of Boston launched: “” I think I should be in the running for Defensive Player of The Year. Who else but me can defend on the five positions? ».
“I have nothing against Rudy, but Rudy cannot defend on the five positions”
This versatility remains his number 1 argument against Rudy Gobert. ” Think about it… As a guard, especially on a team that switches a lot, and has the best defense in the NBA, you have to keep an eye on all the players. And that’s what you have to remember: when you think of the Defensive Player of the Year, that means he can defend in all five positions. I have nothing against Rudy, but Rudy cannot defend on the five positions. I can do it, and I do. And I do it well. »
What does Rudy Gobert think, interviewed by ESPN? ” As an interior, you can have an impact on several players at the same time. When you are a back, it is more difficult. » Even if he can’t hold a Chris Paul or a Devin Booker in one-on-one, Rudy Gobert is able to hinder them, and prevent them from going to the circle. His role as an intimidator is underestimated, even if it’s not one-on-one defense.
Joel Embiid, also cited among the best defenders in the NBA, also defends the role of interiors.
“The pivots call for all the help. They know everything that is going to happen. They notify systems and all that. That’s why most Defensive Players Of The Year have always been insides. »
“When I enter a field, I worry about the team. I think sometimes we are too focused on individual duels.
Another serious candidate for the trophy, Mikal Bridges. He too relies on his versatility to shine on this side of the field, but also his one-on-one defense.
« We must show more recognition to the defense on the ball carrier. On the defense against complicated players like Harden, Durant, Kyrie, Steph, Luka, and the list is long… Voters should not know how complicated it is to keep your opponent in front of you, without being able to really touch him since fault will be whistled. And how much talent there is in the backs, and more generally on the exteriors. »
Precisely, Rudy Gobert finds that we are trying too hard to transform basketball into a one-on-one sport, and therefore to highlight individual defense.
« There are a lot of very good defenders, and very good defenders at the backs. It can be hard sometimes for people to understand that when I walk onto a pitch, I care about the team. I think sometimes we are too focused on individual duels. »
