Welcome back to the "Greatest Ever" series as we continue back with the ranks of the greatest defensive players to play in the league's history.
I've written an article on the same topic, but for some reasons i have decided to rewrite it again. It's certainly tough to rank the greatest defenders in only list.
Before i show you my actual list, i will rank the players in few categories because playing great defense can be done in many ways. Who ranks on top?
Without further ado, let's find out!
Best Perimeter Defender:Garry Payton
To me, no one ever defended the perimeter better than Gary Payton whose nickname (“The Glove”) describes his ability to defend perfectly, for he is the only Point Guard to ever win Defensive Player of the Year.
Payton stood at 6’4″, had phenomenal footwork, quick hands, toughness and tenacity to rise above all on the perimeter against tons of prolific scorers.
He had no problem shutting them all down as he masted the art of steals while not allowing a clear shot.He was known for his defensive performances in his career against some of the top scorers of all times.
He held his own against even the legendary Michael Jordan, who he put to his worst Finals performances and slowed him to 27.3 points, stopping him five times under 30 points and holding him to 42 percent from the field.
There is another strong candidate in Scottie Pippen, who had a perfect size to defend with 6’8, had long arms, terrific footwork and a needed aggression to excel.
He defended well anyone. Sid the Squid is terrific as well as guys, but he didn't really face too many prolific scorers.
There were other candidates in Walt Frazier, Jerry West, Michael Jordan, Dennis Johnson but all came short. Here's the list
1.Gary Payton
2.Scottie Pippen
3.Michael Jordan
4.Sidney Moncrief
5.Bruce Bowen
Honorable Mention:Jerry West, Walt Frazier, Dennis Johnson and so on.
Best Post Defender:Bill Russell
Bill Russell revolutionized the concepts of defense in the NBA and was a phenomenal defensive player who mastered the fundamentals to dominate at the defensive end and change the game of basketball with that style.
He basically built the fundamentals of the blocked shot, who made blocking shots into an art form, because he had perfect timing, didn’t foul the shooter and when he blocked the shot, kept his team in possession since he would tip the ball to his teammate or to himself.
He turned blocks into rebounding chances, which is superb. He was a lock-down defender who would use his high basketball IQ, skills and athleticism to stop his man.
He had many performances slowing down the great Wilt to below his standard games in the Finals and Playoffs.
However he's not the only one with a respectable case for the first spot. Wilt Chamberlain, although was known for his offense, he was just as dominant and feared on the other side.
He'd have probably led the league in blocks if the stat was official through. Then you have Hakeem Olajuwon, who was also terrific in all categories.
You also have Nate Thurmond, a capable and praised center for his ability in the paint. Then you have Tim Duncan, for who a case can be made that he's just as good as these named legends.
Dikembe Mutombo is another stopper who's worth to mention. Here's the list.
A respectable argument can be made for all five members as the finest post (and overall) defensive player ever.
1.Bill Russell
2.Hakeem Olajuwon
3.Wilt Chamberlain
4.Nate Thurmond
5.Tim Duncan
Honorable Mention:Artis Gilmore, Dikembe Mutombo, Bill Walton, David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, Ben Wallace
Best Thief:Jerry West
Jerry West was arguably the greatest thief in the NBA History. He was a 6'2 guard, who had excellent skills, quick hands as snake's tongue, instincts and those long arms. He was a terrific presence on the lanes.
While steals were official in only one year of his career, he averaged 2.6 steals in that season. He was also 36 years, battled through injuries which makes that achievement fantastic.
He was so prolific in this aspect of the game, that he'd probably have lead the league if the stat was official in his time.
He often had games over 10 steals and some of them were documented. Other candidate worth to consider is Michael Jordan.
Although he ranks second in total overall in both regular season and playoffs, Jordan was capable to play more than solid defense and get the steal.
Then, the overlooked Alvin Robertson can be added to the conversation because he ranks first in steals per game. Gary Payton, Jason Kidd, Maurice Cheeks are other worthy players who deserve to be on that list.
For a note is the fact that Scottie Pippen was a very good player in this aspect, which can be supported by the fact that he holds the records for most steals for forwards in both regular and post season.
However, you can't leave Hakeem Olajuwon who ranks ninth in steals, a surely outstanding feat. Even though steals wasn't official stat in their careers, Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain's domination in that aspect was more than evident.
The list
1.Jerry West
2.Michael Jordan
3.John Stockton
4.Alvin Robertson
5.Jason Kidd
Honorable Mention:Hakeem Olajuwon, Chris Paul (will most likely get a place on this list one day), Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Clyde Drexler, Maurice Cheeks, Allen Iverson etc.
Best Shot Blocker:Bill Russell
The blocked shot is the most powerful action in the game of basketball, which is often the last line of defense in order to stop someone’s shot attempt.
Bill Russell is arguably the greatest shot blocker to ever step on a hardwood. He built the fundamentals of the blocked shot.
He mastered three things for success:1) perfect timing, 2)not fouling the shooter and 3) tipping the ball to himself or his team mates.
He was known to play mind games with his opponents. Then, in the key moment, he'd stop them with his shot blocking and get them out of rhythm. However, blocks weren't official stat in his time.
Had they been, he'd most likely been in the top 2. Wilt Chamberlain has also a very respectable case too. He was a physical presence in the paint and he made sure everyone know that.
He often swat shots and that's why his opponents feared him. He'd would have probably been the all time leader in this stat, had it been official in his career.
Then we have the current all time leader in this category, Hakeem Olajuwon. The Dream was a fantastic shot blocker himself, and like the rest, he excelled in this thing too.
Other candidate who's worth to mention is Nate Thurmond. He put his physicality on display and was a well known presence in the paint with his elite shot blocking skills.
I won't pass on the guards though. West and Jordan were awesome shot challengers of their own, despite their positions. Respectable cases can be made for the first four members for this honor. Here is my list.
1.Bill Russell
2.Wilt Chamberlain
3.Hakeem Olajuwon
4.Nate Thurmond
5.Kareem Abdul Jabbar
Honorable Mention:Dikembe Mutombo, David Robinson, Alonzo Mourning, Ben Wallace, Tim Duncan, Mark Eaton, Bill Walton, Artis Gilmore and so on.
Most Versatile Defender:Dennis Rodman
Don’t worry NBA fans, despite how bad Dennis Rodman is off the court, what he did on it was fantastic; a rebounder and defender of his class is hard to find.
A player like him, now, could turn a team into a championship contender. He defended fast and small point guards such as Gary Payton to giants of the game like Shaquille O’Neal, which no one else did better.
His versatility and skills on the defensive end gave him a reputation as a superb defender his entire career.
He was a consistent member of the All-NBA Defensive Teams, won two Defensive Player Of The Year awards and contributed to five titles.
Other outstanding versatile stopper was New York's Dave Debusschere, who despite his physicality, he defended anyone well. Bobby Jones was amazing defender of his own, who excelled in all of the areas where a guy on this list should.
Here is the list
1.Dennis Rodman
2.Bobby Jones
3.Dave Debusschere
4.Scottie Pippen
5.Bruce Bowen
Honorable Mention:Sidney Moncrief, Gary Payton, Michael Cooper, Bill Russell, Hakeem Olajuwon etc.
Best Defensive Rebounder:Wilt Chamberlain
The legendary Wilt Chamberlain was arguably the greatest rebounder in the NBA History. He's rivaled by very few here, and i think he was the finest at pulling down rebounds in his side of the court.
The defensive boards weren't an official stat until 1972, which means that we don't know exactly how much boards was he averaging at his glass. He had 22.9 boards in average, and he must have averaged something above 12 if not more.
Honorable Mention:Dave Cowens (holds official records), Karl Malone, Kevin Garnett, Bill Russell, Dennis Rodman etc
Taking The Charge:Derrick Fisher
Taking charges is also another way of slowing down your man, but in order to do this, you have to be ahead of your man and stand there for at least two seconds, so the refs can call an offensive foul and believe me, it’s not easy to do it.
However, there have been players like Fisher, Ginobili and Varejao who have done it the best, but also added nice acting performances that I’m sure would all get awarded. From all of these, no one did it better than D Fish.
Best Off-Ball Defender:Hakeem Olajuwon
Off-Ball Defense is also another way of judging how a player did on that end of the court, which can be measured by stats and by simply watching.
There have been players who have played the passing lanes, blocked shots, helped on the double-team, get in the paint for boards and so on. Players like these can have big impacts on a team.
For an example, the ability to play good defense in the lanes gave the Bulls in the 90′s huge success since they broke down the ball movement, interrupted game plans and so on.
From the past, legends like Pippen, Jordan and many others excelled at this. Over the past two-three years, the best off-ball defender has been LeBron James.
His great abilities got him deep in the voting for the league’s top defensive player two years ago. It helped guys like Jordan and Robinson big time to earn awards.
Big men were terrific in this category too. From the recent history of the NBA, Hakeem Olajuwon stands out on top. Of course, you can't leave out Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain who blocked shots and stopped lots of passes too.
The List
1.Hakeem Olajuwon-His off-ball defense was second to none. Without a disrespect for others, he just did it best by far. He challenged shots in the air strongly but also was 9th in steals overall.
He had years when he averaged 3-plus blocks and 2-plus steals, which is amazing.
2.Michael Jordan-The only player to record at least 200 steals and 100 blocks, at least twice. He also leads all guards in total blocked shots too and ranks second in steals.
3.Jerry West-He averaged 2.8 steals and one block at the age of 36. He'd been the all time leader in steals and probably swat more shots than any other guard if these stats were official in his career.
4.Scottie Pippen
5.Ben Wallace
Honorable Mention:Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade
Best Defensive Leaders
In this picture, there are two of the greatest defensive leaders in the NBA History; those two are Kevin Garnett and Bill Russell.
A defensive leader can have such a positive impact on a certain player. In general, these players have the ability to translate that energy, toughness, positive strength and will for winning, which can mean a lot of things in a team.
When the Boston Celtics got Kevin Garnett in 2008, I am positive that few believed that his toughness and intensiveness would translate that well to the Celtics, which happened to be one of the factors for Boston’s successful run in the same year.
Another example can be the signing of Ron Artest to the Lakers, who quickly established himself into the exact same thing that KG did with their rivals, and now, L.A. are one tough team.
From the past, the most notable teams to mention are the Celtics from the 60′s, 80′s, Knicks from the 70′s, 90′s, Showtime Lakers and so on.
Bill Russell had it best with the C’s way back, who from day one single-handedly turned them from a super offensive team, to a superb defensive team, led by the same player to win an amazing 11 championships in 13 years.
1.Bill Russell
2.Hakeem Olajuwon
3.Kevin Garnett
4.Wilt Chamberlain
5.Ben Wallace
Honorable Mention:Dikembe Mutombo, Willis Reed and so on.
Best Defensive Guards
A respectable case for the first four as the best defensive guards of all time. It's hard to judge who's better when all things are taken in consideration.
I've decided to go with Sidney Moncrief as the top choice here. He was the first guard (and player) to win the Defensive Player Of The Year award as soon it existed.
He impacted on defense like no one else could and was a lock down stopper. Michael Jordan is another candidate here. He was terrific in terms of in both on and off ball defense, he won a DPOY himself too.
Gary Payton remains the only point guard to win the Defensive Player Of The Year. He was amazing on the perimeter and on the passing lanes. A case can be made for him.
Finally, the NBA's Logo, Jerry West was just as good as any of the named guys above if not better. He'd most likely been the all time leader in steals and blocks for guards ( for the first also overall).
Here is the list
1.Sidney Moncrief
2.Michael Jordan
3.Gary Payton
4.Jerry West
5.Joe Dumars
6.Dennis Johnson
7.Walt Frazier
8.Jason Kidd
9.Alvin Robertson
10.Kobe Bryant
Honorable Mention:Michael Cooper, KC Jones (first lock down defender ever from the guards position)
Best Defensive Forwards
Before i name the top 10, the two men in the picture here, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman easily are two candidates for the honor of finest defensive forward ever.
Also another guy who's worthy of mentioning is Bobby Jones, the underrated stopper of the great Philadelphia teams of the 80's. Of course, Debusschere was a worthy defender as well!
Kevin Garnett is the most elite candidate of recent time, but his case will get better when he retires.Here is my list
1.Dennis Rodman
2.Scottie Pippen
3.Bobby Jones
4.Kevin Garnett
5.Dave Debusschere
6.Elvin Hayes
7.Bruce Bowen
8.John Havlicek
9.Ron Artest
10.Shane Battier
Honorable Mention:Gus Johnson (has two All-Defensive First Team), Maurice Lucas, James Worthy
Best Defensive Centers
The first five members of the list all have respectable cases for the honor of not only best defensive center, but also the greatest defender to ever play the game of basketball.
Here's the top 10 list.
1.Bill Russell
2.Hakeem Olajuwon
3.Wilt Chamberlain
4.Tim Duncan (he’s listed as a Power Forward, but on defense is more of a center and that’s where he stands on those All-Defensive Teams)
5.Nate Thurmond
6.Dikembe Mutombo
7.David Robinson
8.Bill Walton
9.Artis Gilmore
10.Patrick Ewing
Honorable Mention:Willis Reed, Robert Parish and so on.
Best Defensive Line Ups
Here is a quick look at the best defensive line ups:
All-Time First Best Defensive Line Up
C:Hakeem Olajuwon
PF:Bill Russell
SF:Dennis Rodman
SG:Sidney Moncrief
PG:Gary Payton
All Time Second Best Defensive Line Up
C:Wilt Chamberlain
PF:Tim Duncan
SF:Kevin Garnett
SG:Michael Jordan
PG:Walt Frazier
All Time Third Best Defensive Line Up
C:Nate Thurmond
PF:Dave Debusschere
SF:Bobby Jones
SG:Jerry West
PG:Dennis Johnson
Overall
As a fan of the league, it’s really hard to judge, overall, who was the finest defensive player to ever walk on an NBA hardwood.
The reason that I included these categories are because players from different positions often have their own ways of slowing down their opponents.
I hate to leave someone off and that’s why I will feature a top 20 list that will be in a specific order. Check my choices from the last to the best. Enjoy!
20.Bill Walton
Bill Walton was one of the game's greatest defenders of all time, who put that skill of his on display especially when he was healthy and dominated in that aspect.
Walton wasn't a physically gifted center, but he mastered the fundamentals, relied on his superior intelligence, used his size, length and skills to establish himself as a force under his paint.
Had there was a Defensive Player Of The Year in his time, he'd most likely win one. He also held his own against the many great opponents like Kareem and so on.
Notable Career Facts and Stats
He led the NBA in rebounds (14.4) and blocked shots (3.3) per game in 1976-77 season
He averaged 19 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game through that Finals series!
He went for 29 rebounds and seven blocks in Game 3, and 23 rebounds plus seven blocks in Game 6 of the 76-77 Finals.
All NBA Defensive Selections: Two (All-First Defensive Team)
His career defensive rebound percent of 30.2 is ranked No. 1 in the history of the NBA!
His career defensive rating of 96.3 is ranked No.8 in the history of the NBA!
His playoff defensive rating of 97.8 is ranked No. 3 in playoff history!
19.Artis Gilmore
After his long waiting, Artis Gilmore finally entered Basketball's Hall Of Fame. He did it, because of his excellence as one of the greatest defenders of all time.
The A-Train's dominance on defense was largely because of his superior physical gifts. He was one of the most physically gifted men to play the game.
He translated them to a near perfection. Artis was one of the top shot blockers ever. He ranks fourth in blocked shots with his combined career.
He was an intimating presence because of this. Also, Gilmore was an excellent one on one defender too. Thanks to his quality on this end made him an All-Star.
He was truly a force!
Notable Career Facts and Stats (Featuring NBA/ABA Stats Combined):
All-Defensive Selections: Six (Five All-ABA First Defensive/ One All-NBA Second Defensive Team)
His career total of 11,514 defensive rebounds is ranked No. 1 all time
His career total of 3,178 blocked shots is ranked No. 4 all time
His career block average of 2.4 is ranked No. 14 all time
His career defensive rebound percent of 24.9 is ranked No. 13 all time
His playoff total of 168 blocked shots is ranked No. 21 all time
His playoff average of 2.2 blocked shots per game is ranked No. 10 all time
His playoff total of 808 defensive rebounds is ranked No. 27 all time
His career defensive win share of 75.54 is ranked No. 10 all time
He led the ABA five times in total defensive rebounds!
He led the ABA three times in total blocked shots!
18.Alonzo Mourning
A powerful presence in the paint who possessed remarkable athleticism, terrific strength, nice length and timing, Alonzo Mourning was one of the game’s greatest defensive players of all time.
He was an intimating presence in the interior because of his already named physical advantages which made up for his lack of size (6’10) and he was a skilled stopper too.
Mourning was one of the best shot blockers to ever play in the NBA, who challenged pretty much everything well, had nice numbers, alerted dozens of attempts because of that and was consistent in doing it. His numbers speak for that as well.
Zo was a monster on the boards, who could glean the glass very well and had couple of seasons over 10 rebounds in average.
His highest mark was 13.3 in his sophomore season as part of the Charlotte Hornets, who collected big numbers despite playing with Larry Johnson was capable to pull down a ton of missed shots as well.
He pretty much became the Hornets all time leader in blocks very soon after short number of games, a proof of his dominance.
In his prime, he was the top overall defensive player who led all twice in blocks with outstanding 3.7 and 3.9 rejections that earned him two Defensive Player Of The Year awards.
He was an amazing one on one defender as well, who challenged all of the great offensive big men in his era like Shaq, Hakeem who were two of the best players to ever step foot on a basketball hardwood.
Notable Career Facts
-Defensive Player Of The Year awards:two (won them in his prime)
-All NBA Defensive Teams:two (largely because he played with Hakeem, Ewing, Robinson and so on)
-Career Rebounds:7.137 (8.5)—————————————————665 (7.0)
-Career Blocked Shots:2.356 (2.8)———————————————–215 (2.3)
-His career block total ranks No.12 on the all time list
-His career blocking average ranks No.6 on the all time list
-His career block percent ranks No.6 on the all time list
-His playoffs block total ranks No.16 on the all time list
-His playoffs blocking average ranks No.9 on the all time list
17.Jerry West
Even though he was much more known for his amazing offensive abilities, Jerry West was an outstanding defensive wizard who's one of the best defenders of all time.
He was a 6'2 guard, who was blessed with nice instincts, skills, intelligence and amazing length. His wing span was around 6'10, which is fantastic tool for a defender to have, especially for his size.
West was one of the finest off-ball stoppers to ever step on a hardwood. That's evident by his averages of 2.8 steals and one block at the age of 36 in the last year of his career.
His stats were probably insane as he has recorded arguably more steals than anyone else and blocked most shots for a guard. He often had games above ten steals, which speaks a lot.
He was a lock down defender too, who knew how to stop his opponents and excelled in perimeter defense too. Overall, he was one of the most underrated defensive players to play the game.
For a note is he might have had a chance to win a Defensive Player Of The Year even though he played in an era which featured Russell, Wilt and Thurmond. He'd have made more All-Defensive Teams if they were official in his career.
Notable Career Facts:
-All NBA Defensive Team Selections:5 (four of them were All-First Team)
16.Kareem Abdul Jabbar
Although he was known for his offensive excellence, Kareem Abdul Jabbar was a powerhouse on defense too. He was one of the greatest defenders of all time.
He translated his physical gifts on defense, had excellent instincts and was smart enough to stop his opponents. His dominance on that end of the court was underrated.
To prove that, i will point out the fact that the Bucks for few years managed to hold their opponents to weak field goal percent, despite Kareem being the only elite stopper.
He was one of the finest shot blockers to play the game, who was known for his weak side rejections. For a decade, he either led all in this category or was second.
Had it been Defensive Player Of The Year awards, he'd have most likely won one or maybe more.
Notable Career Facts and Stats
All-NBA Defensive Team Selection: 11 (Five All-First Defensive/Six All-Second Defensive Team)
Block Titles: Four
His career total of 3,189 blocked shots is ranked No. 3 on the all-time lists
His playoff total of 476 is the all-time best in playoff history
His playoff average of 2.4 blocks per game is ranked No. 8 in playoff history
His playoff total of 1,273 rebounds is ranked No. 5 in playoff history
His career total of 9,394 defensive rebounds is ranked No. 9 all time
His career defensive rating of 94.49 is ranked No. 2 all time
His playoff defensive rating of 13.74 is ranked No. 4 in playoff history
He has led the NBA twice in total defensive rebounds
His total of 1,111 defensive rebounds is an NBA record
15.Bobby Jones
Although he's an unknown name to youthful generation of basketball, but all the students of the history of this league know what he did finest and that was playing stealer defense.
Bobby Jones was one of the greatest defenders of all time. His skills, amazing hustle, determination and toughness made him to be in the elite class of all-time defensive wizards.
He was a true defensive wizard who was strong on the perimeter, on his man, inside, everywhere. In fact as a pure stopper, few have been better.
He was one of the most admired defenders to ever put a uniform on, few years in the ABA and the rest of his career in the NBA. He had world class years in both leagues.
He's one of the rare here that wasn't specially physically gifted, but that didn't stop him from defending well. In fact, he did it as one of the best ever!
Notable Career Facts:
-All Defensive Selections:10 All-First (9x in the NBA, one in the ABA)
14.Gary Payton
Toughness, courage, strong footwork combined with rarely seen skills for a point guard to dominate on the other end of the court. That is rarely seen in a floor general.
In fact those attributes made him a legend. Gary Payton was truly a special defender because of this. He was in fact, one of the greatest defensive players of all time.
He was called the "Glove" for his ability to consistently lock his opponents. He was the best perimeter stopper in the NBA History, who troubled all out there.
Payton is still the only point guard to win the Defensive Player Of The Year award, as he was awarded in '96. He even managed to slow Michael Jordan down in a head to head Finals duel.
He also played well on the lanes,as he did managed to lead twice in steals per game. He mastered the art form of steals on his man while not give him clear shot.
He ranks among the top five leaders in that category. Nonetheless, he excelled on defense.
Notable Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year:One
-All-Defensive Selections:9 (All-First)
-One of the rare players to get selected in All-Nine First Defensive Teams
-Only point guard to win the Defensive Player Of The Year
-Ranks fourth on the all time list in career steals
-Ranks 18th on the playoffs all time list in total steals
-Ranks 23rd on the all time list in career steals per game
13.Michael Jordan
As much as he was nearly an unstoppable offensive force, he was as nearly as good on the defensive end. Michael Jordan was one of the best defenders ever.
He was one of the most physically gifted players of all time, who had the needed gifts to excel and he did. He had great footwork, speed, was athletic and so on.
He excelled in both off and on ball defense, as he could impact the game in more than one way! He was outstanding on the perimeter as well and locked down his opponents.
Michael interrupted teams' ball movement with his dominance at the passing lanes. He mastered the art form of staying in front of his man while not giving him a shot.
He's ranked second on the all time list. Additionally, he was arguably the top blocking guard to play the game. Jordan was awarded with a league Defensive Player Of The Year in '88.
He could be argued to be as the best defensive guard ever and certainly into the top ten too.
Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year: 1 (1988)
-All NBA Defensive Selections: 9 (All-First each, shares the record with Payton, Kobe and Garnett)
-One of the rare guards to win a Defensive Player Of The Year award
-Steals: 2,514 (2.3)—————————————-376 (2.10)
-Ranks No.1 in most blocked shots for guards
-Ranks No.2 in most steals for career
-Ranks No.2 on the playoffs in most steals per game
-Ranks No.3 on the all-time list for career steals per game
-Ranks No.6 on the playoffs all-time list in most steals per game
12.Kevin Garnett
Athletic, quick, strong, powerful put him among the most physically gifted players ever. His skills were maximized by his intensiveness, aggressiveness.
These attributes made Kevin Garnett dominant and great on the other side of the court. He was truly one of the greatest defenders in the NBA History.
He is one of the most intimating defensive presences to play the game. He's been a superb rim protector, who is a great shot blocker and interrupts passes well.
Kevin's excellence in the paint is superb. Additionally, his dominance in the interior was crucial to Celtics' championship run in '08, as he stopped his man and established as a presence.
He's capable to lock his opponents, as he stopped Pau Gasol during the 2008 run too. He was awarded with a Defensive Player Of The Year award.
His case will get better when he retires, when i think he'll get in the debate for the best stopper to play in the NBA.
Notable Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year:1 (2008)
-All NBA Defensive Selections:11 (9x All-First Defensive)
-His career total of 9326 defensive rebounds is ranked #7 on the all time list (best of all current)
-His career total of 1790 blocked shots is ranked at #23 on the all time list
-His playoff average of 1.43 blocked shots is ranked #30 in the playoffs history
-His career total of 1513 steals is ranked #4 among the current and is one of the better for power forwards
-His playoff total of 832 defensive rebounds is ranked #25 on the all time list!
-His career defensive rebound percent of 25.6 is ranked at #12 on the all time lists
-His playoff defensive rebound percent of 25.9 is ranked #6 in the playoffs history!
-4x times leader in total defensive rebounds grabbed!
11.David Robinson
A 7’2″ muscular, athletic, quick and strong center with a nice vertical jump, David Robinson was one of the best defensive players to step on an NBA hardwood.
He was one of the most physically imposing players of all time. His athleticism was perhaps the most elite. He was very strong big man inside, good in one on one match ups and did most of his work in the air.
He excelled at shot blocking, which was his strength on defense that have earned him a good reputation. He’s arguably one of the top five shot blockers of any time.
He averaged amazing 4.5 swat shots when he won his only block crown but he did also average 3.9 rejections in his first two seasons. That’s domination.
He was also interrupting passes like crazy. He had some seasons when he ranked top 5 in steals, which is crazy! Additionally, he was so great in one on one defense.
The Admiral contained many elite opponents, and was one of the rare ones who defended the likes of Shaq, Hakeem etc, pretty well. He was dominant force.
His greatest achievement came when he won Defensive Player of the Year in a competition of many all time greats, which is a fantastic accomplishment.
Notable Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year: one (1992)
-All NBA Defensive Selections: Eight (4x All-First)
-Rebounds: 10,497 (10.6)—————1301 boards (10.6)
-Blocks: 2,954 (3.0)————————-312 blocks (2.5)
-Ranks No.5 in terms of most blocks during the playoffs
-Ranks No.6 in most blocked shots per game during the playoffs
-Ranks No.6 on the all-time list in most blocked shots
-Ranks No.4 on the all-time list in most blocked shots per game
-Ranks No.30 in most rebounds per game during career
10.Sidney Moncrief
Whenever you hear the name Sidney Moncrief, one thing should be remembered:amazing defensive abilities, which earned him the reputation as one of the best defenders to play in NBA History.
A consistent, determined stopper, with a strong body who had above average shot blocking skills thanks to his 36 inch vertical jump, which he combined with his superb skills to dominate on defense, like few had of any time.
He didn’t have great stats in blocks and steals, but his determination to be on the top as a defensive wizard and overall, made him a loved player during his career at the Bucks, a fan favorite and an admired figure from other stars.
Sid the Squid excelled on the ball defense, perimeter and was also versatile too. Actually, he consistently locked his opponents well that earned him fantastic reputation.
And why was he like that. This quote says it all: “In that environment, you were always on the defensive, because you never wanted to show that you could be dominated in any way.”
Sidney Moncrief could be argued as the greatest defender of all time. A respectable case can be made.
Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year: 2 (1982,83)
-All NBA Defensive Teams: 5 (Four-Time All-First selections)
-One of the better blocking guards
-First player the Defensive Player Of The Year
-First guard to win the Defensive Player Of The Year
-Only guard to win the Defensive Player Of The Year twice
-First man to win the Defensive Player Of The Year twice
9.Ben Wallace
For a big man, Ben Wallace is not that big of a dude, but regardless of that, he has made his mark as one of the best defensive players the game has ever seen.
He based his dominance on his superb physicality. He possessed excellent strength, athleticism, could jump high etc. He also had skills as well and was such an intimating presence on defense.
Ben is notable for his shot blocking skills. He has blocked ton of shots, and his numbers prove that. He ranks high on the all time lists in blocks and also won a block title in 2000, with an average of 3.5 rejections!
Wallace's help defense is one of the finest ever too. Additionally, few have been more feared on this side of the court than him. His great abilities to defend the rim were the key for the Pistons' title run in 2004.
He was excellent in one on one duels as well. Additionally, Big Ben holds numerous records and numbers which only help his case. He holds the record for most Defensive Player Of The Year awards win with four.
A respectable case as the best defender of all time could be made for him.
Notable Career Facts:
- Defensive Player Of The Year: 4 (2003,04,05,06____shares that record with Dikembe)
- All NBA Defensive Teams: 6 (5x All-First)
- Rebound titles: 2x (15.4,13.0)
- Rebounds: 10,034 (10.1)————————————1454 (11.2)
- Blocks: 2,055 (2,1)——————————————–250 (1.9)
- Ranks No.16 in the playoffs history for most blocks per game recorded ever
- Ranks No.10 in the playoffs history for most blocks
- Ranks No.18 on the all time list for career blocks
- Ranks No.41 in most rebounds grabbed per game in career
- Ranks No.34 on the all time list for most career rebounds
- Ranks No.55 on the all time lists for most steals
- Had 6 seasons of at least,10+ boards,2+ blocks and 1+ steals per game
8.Scottie Pippen
Scottie Pippen was a remarkable force on defense, who had all the needed things to excel in this aspect of the game. And he did. He was one of the best defensive players to step on a NBA hardwood.
He was a tall, athletic, quick and long armed forward that besides the solid physicality, possessed superb skills and instincts too. In fact, he made outstanding impact.
Scottie was one of the finest perimeter stoppers to play the game, with a respectable case for the first spot. He usually got the better of his opponents out there.
Additionally, few were better in terms of on ball defense. Pippen was also one of the most versatile defenders ever. He could defend four positions pretty well.
He was also terrific in off-ball defense as well. Pippen was a threat at the passing lanes, as his numbers prove that and often led his team in blocks and steals during his career.
Despite his excellence as superb defensive forward, he wasn't awarded with a league Defensive Player Of The Year, which was a huge snub by the league.
Nonetheless, he was all time great in this aspect of basketball. A case can be made for him as the top defender in the NBA History too.
Notable Career Facts:
-All NBA Defensive Selections: Nine Times (Eight All-First Defense )
-Steals:2307 (2.0)———————————————-395 steals (1.9)
-Ranks No.1 in the playoffs history for most steals
-Ranks No.1 in the playoffs history for most steals record by a forward
-Ranks No.6 on the all time list, for most career steals
-Steals title: 1 (2.9)
-Often led his teams in blocks and assists, from time to time even in steals
7.Dikembe Mutombo
An international born player who made his mark on the defensive end which earned him a reputation of superb post presence, Dikembe Mutombo is one of the greatest defenders ever.
He translated his physical gifts such as size, athleticism, strength and length well in order to establish himself as a dominant presence in the paint defensively.
Mutombo had excellent timing, awareness and skills as well. He was one of the top shot blockers ever. He's ranked third on the all time list in total blocks.
Also, Dikembe was outstanding in one on one match ups. He has guarded Shaq pretty well and other terrific big men of his era. He knew how to bother them.
Additionally, he was excellent in his own paint too. He won four Defensive Player Of The Year awards, a record that still stands and were awarded to him for his ability to defend.
He's got a respectable case for the first spot too.
Notable Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year: 4 (NBA record,shares it with Big Ben)
-All NBA Defensive Selections: 6 (including 3x All-First)
-Blocked shots: 3,289 (2.8)————————–251 (2.5)
-Rebounds: 12,359 (10.3)———————————–962 (9.5)
-Ranks at No.2 in most career blocks
-Ranks at No.7 in most blocks per game
-Ranks at No.35 in most career rebounds per game
-Ranks at No.18 in most boards grabbed for career
-Ranks at No.10 in most playoff blocks
-Ranks at No.7 in most blocks per game during the playoffs
-Ranks at No.15 in most career defensive win share
-Ranks at No.8 in career defensive rebound percent
-3x block titles
-5x leader in total blocks
-2x rebound titles
6.Nate Thurmond
A remarkable physically gifted center who played defense with pride but is in the shadows of his peers, Nate Thurmond was one of the greatest defenders of all time with a good case of being the best as well.
It’s a shame injuries slowed him a little bit time, but he was a real force in his own paint in so many ways.
He possessed incredible athleticism, strength, awesome vertical jump, instincts and length to be an all time great in this aspect of the game.
He was additionally sensational in one on one match ups, as he could stop his man and still be a presence. He was fantastic in blocking shots who is one of the top shot blockers ever.
Some say he could block more shots in his prime than Hakeem, which isn’t an easy thing. It’s unfortunately that stat wasn’t official part from the start of his career as he would have ranked near the top.
Thurmond was a dominant presence on the glass, who even though put awesome numbers, he never led the league in rebounding.
He did grab over 20 rebounds in two season, he also has career average of 15.0 that is ranked at the 5th spot. For a period of four years, he collected 19.7 boards
In a period for two season, he collected 20.5 missed shots a game. Phenomenal, isn’t it? Nate the Great was one of the rare players to record 20 boards in multiple seasons.
He was the ultimate Kareem and Wilt stopper, as Jabbar said that Nate was th++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++e toughest defender he ever faced. A good praise from a big rival, isn’t it?
He held the 7’2 opponent who to a big time decrease in production thanks to the tough and great defense by Nate. All of them, including Russ said that he was their toughest challenge.
When Kareem faced Nate, his production usually decreased big time. Same for Wilt as well. He was arguably the finest one on one defender from the center’s position.
Even though there wasn't a Defensive Player Of The Year, he'd have won at least one award.
Notable Career Stats and Facts
All-NBA Defensive Selections: Five (Two All-First Defensive/Three All-Second Defensive Teams)
His career rebound total of 14,464 rebounds is ran++++++++++++++++++ked No. 9 all time
His career rebound average of 15.0 is ranked No. 5 all time
His playoff total of 1,101 rebounds is ranked No. 33 in playoff history
His playoff average of 13.6 rebounds per game is ranked No. 10 in playoff history
His career defensive win share rating of 62.2 is ranked No. 23 in playoff history
5.Tim Duncan
+Often viewed as boring but very efficient, Tim Duncan is one of the greatest defensive players in the history of the NBA who’s still a dominate defensive presence in the paint and is the perfect fundamentally sound defender.
He could be even argued as the finest of them all.bThat’s right. He has never been a guy who would go in too many unneeded air match ups just to stop a shot attempt near the rim.
His size, length and skills combine with his superb instincts and high basketball IQ allowing him to outsmart his opponents.
He’s second to Bill Russell in terms of beating his opponents in the air because he has incredible timing, a sense not to foul the shooter and not to allow second chances for his opponents, which makes him one of the best shot blockers.
However, his work defensively has came more on the ground in which few were better but that's arguable.
He wasn't also a foul machine too, as he was one of the rare members of this list to have higher blocking average than fouls.
He held even the great Shaq attack to 23 points per game during his rival’s finest seasons. He excelled at cleaning the glass by understanding boxing out and dominating in the clutch.
For example, he had like 15 boards to go with three blocks in the ’03 Finals.
Notable Career Facts:
-All NBA Defensive Selections: 13 (including 8x All-First)
-NBA All time leader in most defensive selections
-Career Rebounds: 11,529 (11.6)————————–2114 (12.4)
-Career Blocked shots: 2,273 (2.3)————————438 (2.6)
-Ranks at No.4 in the playoffs for most blocked shots
-Ranks at No.11 in most career blocked shots
-Ranks at No.16 in career blocks per game
-Ranks at No.24 in terms of most rebounds grabbed in career
-Ranks at No.20 in career rebounds per game
-Ranks at No.15 in playoff rebounds per game
-Ranks at No.7 in career defensive win shares (82.9)
-Ranks at No.5 in playoffs defensive win shares (13.0)
-Ranks at No.2 in career defensive rating
-Ranks at No.14 in playoff defensive rating
-Ranks at No.7 in career defensive win share
-Ranks at No.5 in playoff defensive win share
-Ranks at No.7 in career defensive rebound percent
-Ranks at No.9 in playoff defensive rebound percent
4.Dennis Rodman
Dennis Rodman was one of the greatest defenders in the history of the game called basketball. Although, he was a very crazy person off the court in order to get publicity; on the court he was outstanding.
The surprising part is back in college, this guy was an effective scorer but understood that he would help more on the other end of the court, and he became a total stud.
His hustle, hard work, skills and instincts earned him a reputation as a phenomenal defender. He could be argued as the best of them all in terms of defense.
He was indeed the most versatile stopper who dominated in the three major things of defense: on the perimeter, in the post, on his man and was terrific in team help D as well.
He guarded giants like Shaq, Hakeem to the likes of Jordan, Payton, Magic etc…
He was a rebounding beast who was perhaps the top rebounder of all time, who grabbed like 19 boards per game during his prime, which is a crazy achievement.
When he led the NBA in this category, the second best was like way off with 13 boards.
He stands well in this debate and if you argue Dennis Rodman as the cream of the cop from this list, that’s a good decision. He's a legend in this aspect of the game!
Notable Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year: 2 (1990,91)
-All NBA Defensive Teams: 8 (this includes 7x All-First Defense)
-Boards: 11,954 (13.1)————————–1676 (9.9)
-7x rebound titles (1992-98)
-4x leader in total rebounds
3.Wilt Chamberlain
Although he was much more known for his offense, Wilt Chamberlain was almost equally good when it comes to defense and as feared on this side on the court.
The Big Dipper was arguably the physically most gifted player of all time, as he translated that on this side. He was arguably the most athletic and strongest man to step on a basketball hardwood.
He was a skilled and smart stopper, who made the needed changes to be a dominant presence in his paint. His instincts were amazing and he knew how to use his advantages.
He was arguably the greatest shot blocker to play the game, who usually lead the league in blocked shots even though it wasn't official stat.
He was a feared presence because he didn't let anyone to dunk on neither to finish with easy lay ups. In fact, he was a feared and very intimating defensive presence.
He was an outstanding rebounding machine, who won 11 rebound titles and controlled his glass like no one else has. His ability to grab boards in his own paint, was arguably second to none.
Additionally, he was sensational one on one defender, maybe even the best. Few people shot over 50% percent from field against him, a thing he achieved even though he faced many Hall Of Fame centers.
Chamberlain could be argued as the best defender in the NBA History, even though most remember for his offense only. He was nearly as dominant on this end of the court and his case is respectable.
Notable Career Stats and Facts
All-NBA Defensive Selections: Two (Both are All-First Defensive Teams)
His career total of 23,924 rebounds is the best all time
His career average of 22.9 rebounds per game is the best all time
His career defensive win share of 93.9 is ranked No. 4 all time
His playoff defensive win share of 15.81 is ranked No. 2 all time
His playoff average of 24.46 rebounds per game is second-best all time
His playoff total of 3,913 rebounds is also second-best all time
He led the league 11 times in rebounding, which is by far more times than anyone else
2.Hakeem Olajuwon
A physically imposing center who possessed a rare combination of strength, speed and athleticism, Hakeem Olajuwon could be argued as the greatest defender in the NBA History.
He relied on his superb physical advantages, skills and intelligence to be a force on defense like few have had.He excelled in one on one match ups, rebounded well and challenged shots very well.
He matched up beyond well versus legit offensive threats such as the likes of Shaquille O'Neal, whom, he defended pretty well. He also held them below their normal field goal percentage.
Not only that he was capable to shut down his man, he was a shot blocking machine who could just have a ton of steals, defended the pick n’ roll well and even if there was a switch on the perimeter, he was so good in there too.
He made nice decisions on the court and just changed the game in another way with his total domination as a defender. No one can take that from him.
He was one of the best shot blockers and by far no one ever interrupted the lanes as a big man better than No. 34. That's why his off-ball defense was second to none.
Notable Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year: 2 (1993,94)
-All NBA Defensive Selections: 9 (those include 5x all first)
-NBA All Time leader in blocked shots
-Rebounds: 13,748 (11.1)————————————–1621 (11.2)
-Blocked shots: 3,830 (3.1)———————————472 (3.3)
-Ranks at No.1 in most career blocks of all time
-Ranks at No.1 in most playoff blocks per game
-Ranks at No.2 in most career blocks in total
-Ranks at No.3 in most career blocks per game
-Ranks at No.5 in career defensive win share
-Ranks at No.11 in playoff defensive win share
-Ranks at No.22 in career defensive rebound percent
-Ranks at No.27 in playoff defensive rebound percent
-Ranks at No.11 in career total rebounds
-Ranks at No.25 in career rebound average
-Ranks at No.9 in most steals, No.1 by far more then any other big men
-2x rebound titles (2x leader in total, who averaged ridiculous 16.8 boards in the playoffs)
-3x block titles (2x in total, averaged insane 4.6 blocks per game)
-5x leader in defensive rating
1.Bill Russell
A legendary center who revolutionized the concepts of defense, Bill Russell is the greatest defensive player in NBA History. He changed the game of basketball.
He proved that you can be a superstar while dominating on the other end of the court. And he did that in variety of ways, as he was always a step ahead of everyone.
He was one of the smartest players this game has seen who had a book on everybody and was just that beast who knew how to crush a rhythm of the man he guarded.
He was one of the most physically gifted players ever as he possessed superb athleticism, speed, vertical jump etc which fit well with his natural instincts, superior intelligence and outstanding skill set.
He created dozens of fast breaks for Boston, mostly from rebounding/blocks and throwing outlet passe, which is how he contributed for another two points without even taking a shot. Impressive, isn’t it.
He was arguably the best shot blocker of all time because of his fantastic style.
He mastered three things for earning this honor: perfect timing, not fouling the shooter, keeping possession for his team by turning the blocked shot into a rebound.
That’s art and he built the fundamentals of shot blocking. He was the finest defender that knew how to beat and slow down the great Wilt Chamberlain, especially in the playoffs and finals.
He stopped dozens of great big men, Hall of Famers like Pettit, Reed, Bellamy and so on. It’s a shame defensive stats like blocks and steals were not official during that time, which would have showed his total domination on defense.
There are the 11 championships he won and led his Celtics to it thanks to his magic overall. Most likely he would have been the all-time leader in blocked shots (or his rival Wilt), but it’s a pity since it’s done.
One more thing—he and Olajuwon would often go and deny guards/forwards on the fast break like LeBron does these days.
Notable Career Facts:
-Defensive Player Of The Year : (The award did not exist until 1982)
-All NBA Defensive Teams: 1 (All-First; the award came late in Russell’s career as he was about to retire that time)
-Rebounds: 21,620 (22.5)————————————–4,104 rebounds (24.9)
-Ranks No.1 in career defensive win share
-Ranks No.1 in playoff defensive win share
-Ranks No.1 in total rebounds during playoffs
-Ranks No.1 in most rebounds per game during playoffs
-Ranks No.1 in most rebounds during the Finals
-Ranks No.2 in total career boards
-Ranks No.2 in total career boards per game
Honorable Mention:
Dave Debusschere, Dwight Howard, Patrick Ewing, Walt Frazier, Dave Cowens, Willis Reed, Kobe Bryant, Joe Dumars, John Havlicek, Elvin Hayes, Wes Unseld, Alvin Robertson, Michael Cooper and so on.
As for Dwight, he'll most likely end up as a candidate for this honor once when he's through with basketball. In a longer list, i'd have probably included Robertson, Havlicek, Debusschere and Dwight.
