NBA 2018-19: Top 5 lockdown defenders from last season

Giannis Antetokounmpo blocks Fred VanVleet
Giannis Antetokounmpo blocks Fred VanVleet

#1 Rudy Gobert

Rudy Gobert blocks Clint Capela
Rudy Gobert blocks Clint Capela

There is a reason Rudy Gobert was named Defensive Player of the Year in successive seasons, while making an All-Defensive team over the past three years. Since coming into the league, Gobert has averaged more than two blocks per game in all but his first year, where he only averaged 9.6 minutes per game.

Last season, the French center averaged 0.8 steals and 2.3 blocks per game through 81 games for the Utah Jazz. He has been an exceptional rim protector over the past few years, with his athletic ability, size and wingspan allowing him to contest every shot at the rim, if not blocking it outright.

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Gobert's defensive presence goes beyond just his physical abilities, however. With him being such an imposing force at the basket, opponents think twice before driving or trying to finish at the hoop. He has proven a pivotal piece for the Jazz, who have become a regular face in the playoffs.

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Edited by Mosope Ominiyi
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