NBA 2018-19: 5 Preseason Picks for Defensive Player of the Year

#5 Paul George, Oklahoma City Thunder

Paul George is a dark horse candidate for the award

Paul George has showed some impressive defensive abilities in his career, despite the setback of his nasty foot injury. In his eight-year career, George tallied over 200 blocks, 900 steals and 3000 rebounds. Out of the 16 players his size or shorter to have similar numbers in their first eight years in the NBA, George did it playing the least, totaling under 18,000 career minutes.

He had a low-key great defensive season last year, averaging two steals per game, second best in the league, and even finishing fourth in DPOY voting. Unfortunately, the odds are against him. Seven of the 21 award winners were perimeter players, and since 1989, only two did it: Gary Payton and Kawhi Leonard.

Nevertheless, another season of tough defensive effort for the 3-time All-Defensive player could help him beat those odds. OKC is coming into this season depending on their defense for success; Paul George's defensive qualities will come through strong, making his case for the award.