The Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award has garnered increasing interest and speculation with each passing NBA season. As the new season approaches, several key factors and developments are shaping the conversation around potential candidates. Among the noteworthy players, Victor Wembanyama, Evan Mobley, and a surprisingly bolstered Thunder defense have become focal points.
Wembanyama's Defensive Impact
Victor Wembanyama's performance last season has not gone unnoticed. The towering presence participated in 71 games, a statistic that firmly places him in the running for the DPOY, as players must participate in at least 65 games to qualify. On the defensive end, Wembanyama's impact was clear, with the San Antonio Spurs allowing only 111.2 points per 100 possessions when he was on the court. This efficiency, however, contrasts with the overall defensive ranking of the Spurs, who were 21st in the league and finished 14th in the Western Conference.
Historically, DPOY winners have hailed from teams boasting top-five defensive rankings and playoff berths since 2008. Given the Spurs' struggles, Wembanyama's chances might be slim unless there is a significant improvement in the team's overall defense and standings.
Mobley and the Odds
Evan Mobley, another strong contender, holds +3000 odds for the DPOY with BetRivers. Mobley's performance in the 2023 season, where he finished third in the DPOY race, underscores his defensive prowess. Mobley's consistent contributions have anchored his team, making his candidacy one to watch closely this season. With dedication and the Cavaliers' support, Mobley's odds reflect a fair assessment of his chances, though sports bettors might heed advice to exercise patience. As one observer suggested, "My advice would be to wait a month or two and see if there's ever an injury scare that gives you more favorable odds."
Other Notable Contenders
OG Anunoby, Herb Jones, Jalen Suggs, and Draymond Green also emerge as interesting names in the DPOY conversation. Anunoby and Jones are listed with +4000 and +7000 odds, respectively. Suggs and Green, on the other hand, have even longer odds, sitting at +10000 and +15000, which indicates the challenge they face in clinching the prestigious award.
The Thunder's Defensive Overhaul
One of the most remarkable stories heading into the new season is the Oklahoma City Thunder's defensive transformation. Last season, the Thunder were the fourth-ranked defense in the league. Over the offseason, they made strategic additions, bringing in the second- and fifth-ranked defensive players by Estimated Plus-Minus (EPM). This bolstering move could elevate the Thunder's defensive gameplay to unprecedented heights. However, an area of concern remains with Josh Giddey. Despite playing more than half of the team's games, Giddey was the worst defender on the Thunder by EPM, indicating potential vulnerability.
As the season unfolds, the Thunder's overall defensive performance will be pivotal. If the new acquisitions mesh well and Giddey makes marked improvements, the team could become a formidable defensive unit, potentially housing a future DPOY contender.
The upcoming NBA season promises to be intriguing from a defensive standpoint. Whether Wembanyama can lift the Spurs' defensive ranking, Mobley can capitalize on his odds, or the Thunder's revamped defense can dominate remains to be seen. Each narrative brings its own set of challenges and excitement, setting the stage for a season where defense might very well dictate the success stories we celebrate.