The NBA Defensive Player of the Year (DPoY) award has historically favored traditional centers. While deserving big men like Rudy Gobert and Jaren Jackson Jr. have rightfully earned the honor, some argue that the award doesn’t adequately recognize the unique defensive contributions of guards and wings. [2] OKC Thunder’s Jalen Williams recently voiced this sentiment on “The Young Man and the Three” podcast, suggesting a restructuring of the award system.
Williams proposes the creation of two separate DPoY awards: one for interior defenders and another for perimeter defenders. He acknowledges the exceptional defensive prowess of big men but emphasizes that guards and wings ofen excel in different defensive aspects. For instance, a player like Herb Jones, while not leading the league in steals, consistently ranks among the top defenders according to his peers. [1] Williams believes that recognizing both types of defensive specialists would provide a more comprehensive and accurate portrayal of defensive excellence in the NBA.
This idea sparks a debate about the evolving nature of defense in the modern NBA. With the rise of perimeter-oriented offenses and the increasing importance of versatile defenders who can guard multiple positions, perhaps a reevaluation of the DPoY award is warranted. [3] Should the league consider implementing Williams’ suggestion to better honor the diverse skillsets and contributions of its defensive stars?
Rethinking DPOY: shoudl the NBA Recognize Perimeter Defenders Separately?
Welcome back, hoops fans! Today, we’re diving into a hot topic sparking lively debates across the NBA landscape: the Defensive Player of the Year (DPoY) award. Joining us to dissect this issue is former NBA All-Star and defensive stalwart, Scottie Pippen. Scottie, thanks for taking the time to chat with us.
Scottie: Always happy to be here, you know defense is near and dear to my heart.
moderator: Absolutely.Recently,OKC Thunder’s Jalen Williams suggested the NBA create separate DPoY awards for interior and perimeter defenders. He argues that current system overlooks the unique contributions of guards and wings. What are your thoughts on this idea?
Scottie: I see where Jalen is coming from. The game has changed a lot since my playing days. Back then, it was all about banging in the paint, but now offenses spread the floor, and defending the perimeter is just as crucial. Guys like Herb Jones, who might not rack up blocked shots,are making life miserable for scorers on the wing.
moderator: So, you agree that perimeter defense needs more recognition?
Scottie: Absolutely. We can’t have a conversation about great defense without acknowledging these lockdown guards and wings. They’re the reason offenses are forced to adjust their strategy.
moderator: You mentioned the evolution of the game. Do you think the new style of play necessitates this change to the DPOY award?
Scottie: I think it’s something worth seriously considering.You can’t ignore the impact these perimeter defenders have. Just look at guys like Marcus Smart,Jrue Holiday,or even Matisse Thybulle.They’re not just shutting down their man, they’re disrupting entire offenses.
Moderator: Some argue that separating the award dilutes its prestige. They believe the best defender, regardless of position, should be recognized. What’s your response to that?
scottie: I get that. But isn’t the goal to recognize excellence in all its forms? Just like there are awards for Most Valuable Player and Sixth Man of the Year, maybe it’s time to acknowledge the different ways players can dominate defensively.
Moderator: This is a complex issue, and there are valid arguments on both sides. What do you think the impact of this change would be on the league?
Scottie: It’d definitely shine a spotlight on a skill set that often gets overlooked. It coudl encourage players to specialize and hone their perimeter defense. It might even lead to more exciting matchups in the playoffs.After all, who wouldn’t want to see a Finals showdown between the best interior and perimeter defenders?
moderator: That’s a great point. It’s certainly a conversation worth having. We want to hear from you, our audience. Do you think the NBA should change the DPOY award, and if so, how should they do it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
