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#4 Joel Embiid - Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid has been named to the All-Defensive Second Team in each of the past two seasons, and the Philadelphia 76ers star has taken the next leap this season to put himself in contention for the DPOY award. As we head towards March, the Cameroonian is averaging 9.0 defensive rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 0.9 steals - and also places among the top five players in the league for defensive win shares. However, Embiid could face another spell on the sidelines after injuring his shoulder, and his health between now and April could become an obstacle.
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#3 Giannis Antetokounmpo - Milwaukee Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo's much improved offensive game has overshadowed his go-to defense this season. Nevertheless, while he is set to be named MVP for a second consecutive year, the 25-year-old also has a claim to the Defensive Player of the Year award. Giannis' defensive rating of 97.1 is among the best in the NBA, and he also the only player in the league averaging more than 11 defensive rebounds per game (11.3).
The Greek Freak also tops the NBA in defensive win shares and is contributing 1.1 blocks to the league-leading Milwaukee Bucks - who are allowing just 107.6 points per contest.
