NBA 2013-14: Predictions and analysis for season ending awards - Part 1

Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY): – Joakim Noah

Joakim Noah

The Bulls defense relies heavily on fundamentals such as playing ice or drop on screen and roll, denying middle penetration and allowing their opponents the least efficient shot in the game – the midrange jump shot. Noah has adopted all these defensive philosophies of Coach Thibodeau’s into his game, and now seems to be a perfect fit in the system.

His post play is another aspect of the game which gives Noah the upper hand over his opponents on most nights. He can shut down the opposing centers by fronting the post on most occasions or standing his ground when the opponents go to work.

For a 6 foot 11 inch forward, Noah is very athletic and possesses the unique skill of keeping smaller guards in front of him during a switch, making him one of the best, if not the best, pick and roll defender in the league when the Bulls play ice. His help defense, not given much credit, is often the reason for the opponents running back without scoring a bucket.