This is my favorite award every year in both the NBA and WNBA. Defensive player of the year candidates varies every year. Who will put effort on the defensive side? Who will be most active on defense? That is a skill, not every player exudes or has the desire to work on. It’s truly sad not to see the extra effort on defense. Here is my prediction for the defensive player of the year candidates.
Natasha Howard
Howard has been a phenomenon this year averaging 2.3 steals per game and 1.7 blocks per game. She has been a crucial part of the Seattle Storm success this year. She not only does her part on defense. But on offense as well. Howard is the top 4 scorer leader with 18.7 points per game. Howard is also averaging 8.1 total rebounds per game.
This is what you called an all-around player. She plays both sides of the court. This is the type of player you want in a team.
Brittney Griner
Griner is currently on a three-game suspension. However, her defensive effort before the incident is undeniable. Being 6 foot 9 has its an advantage. But it takes effort to be the block queen. It takes skills and body strength. Blocking is not as easy as you may think. It takes perfect timing for the defender to block a player. Griner is averaging 2.0 blocks per game.
Jonquel Jones
Jones is the top blocker for the season with 2.1 blocks per game. No denial she is a good defender. Jones is helping her team with 6.9 defensive rebounds per game. She definitely deserves to have her name out there added to the list as the defensive player of the year candidates. Jones is averaging 1.3 steals per game. Jonquel Jones is one of the reasons the Connecticut Sun is the top 2 team right now.
In conclusion, who are you most excited to see win the defensive player of the year award? Any of the above three ladies can win it. I truly believe is a close race. Defense wins championships.
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