NBA Defensive Player of the Year 2020: November Power Rankings

#2 Marcus Smart - Boston Celtics

Marcus Smart is finally earning the plaudits he deserves for his work on the defensive end

While Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum have earned plenty of plaudits for their role in Boston's excellent start to the season, Marcus Smart has arguably been the Celtics' best performer. Smart's role on Boston's offense has grown since the departure of Kyrie Irving, although his work on the defensive end continues to be where he excels the most.

While Smart's averages of 3.5 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game don't exactly stand out - he has been able to hold opposing players to just 31.6% shooting from the field. His work defending the perimeter is even better (26.6%) - and there is no reason to doubt his status as a frontrunner for the Defensive Player of the Year Award.

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#1 Anthony Davis - Los Angeles Lakers

Anthony Davis has made a huge impact on the defensive end following his move to the Lakers

LeBron James' early-season form may cost Anthony Davis a shot at being named Most Valuable Player, although there is no doubting that the former New Orleans Pelicans star is the leading contender to be named Defensive Player of the Year. Davis has been a monster on the defensive end, averaging 6.5 defensive rebounds and 1.5 steals - and the 26-year-old leads the league with 2.9 blocks per game.

Alongside fellow defensive specialists Avery Bradley and Danny Green, Davis has played a big role in ensuring that the Lakers have one of the best defenses in the NBA, and Frank Vogel's team is currently allowing just 103.2 points per game. Ultimately, Davis' effort on the defensive end has played an enormous role in transforming the Lakers into genuine title contenders, and the 6-time All-Star is the leading contender to be named Defensive Player of the Year.