NBA Defensive Player of the Year 2020: December Power Rankings

#4 Rudy Gobert - Utah Jazz

Rudy Gobert has impressed once more as he attempts to win DPOY for a third consecutive year

While Rudy Gobert's influence on the Jazz's offense remains debatable, there is no questioning the Frenchman's impact on the defensive end. The 2-time reigning DPOY is averaging a career-high 10.6 defensive rebounds per game and Gobert is also contributing 1.9 blocks and 0.7 steals per contest.

His defensive numbers are especially impressive as Utah's defense has been shaky this season following two years of being among the most feared defensive units in the NBA, and Gobert also recorded five blocks during an excellent showing against the Miami Heat earlier this week.

For the first time in two seasons, Gobert is in danger of missing out on being named DPOY due to the strength of the chasing pack, however, if the 27-year-old's numbers continue to increase over the coming months, he could still the accolade for a third straight year.

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#3 Joel Embiid - Philadelphia 76ers

Joel Embiid's defensive performances have been excellent throughout December

Ahead of the season, Joel Embiid expressed his desire to win the 2020 DPOY award, although some experts disregarded his chances following a mixed start to the season. Nevertheless, the 25-year-old has been excellent throughout December, and as we head towards the new year, Embiid is currently averaging 9.9 defensive rebounds, 0.8 steals and 1.4 blocks per game.

The Philadelphia 76ers star also made a major statement as he shut down Giannis Antetokounmpo during the Sixers' Christmas Day win over the Bucks, and Embiid also seems to have put behind his past injury issues to one side. Ultimately, the 7ft center will need to continue to improve over the next four months, although he is firmly in the mix as we head into 2020.