NBA History: 5 Greatest rim protectors of all time

#2 Hakeem Olajuwon

Hakeem Olajuwon, Houston Rockets

Hakeem Olajuwon was one of the best two-way players in the NBA for a very long time. At 7 feet tall, he was an outstanding rim protector, considered by many to be the best defensive player ever. Hakeem's defensive ability came from a combination of size, speed, athleticism, and his mastery of the fundamentals.

In his time, Hakeem was one of the few defenders that could guard all positions - he never faced problems when he was switched onto a guard, allowing him to defend the pick and roll with ease. Hakeem's combination of length and speed also allowed him to steal the ball well, making him the perfect center.

Hakeem led the Houston Rockets to back-to-back championships in 1994 and 1995, and is the only player to record 200 blocks and steals in the same season. He averaged an astounding 3.1 blocks a game and is considered one of the best players of all-time.

Hakeem was a two-time NBA champion and a two-time Finals MVP. Along with his 12 all-star appearances, he also had the honor of winning MVP in 1994. Hakeem made 9 NBA All-Defensive teams in his career and won DPOY two times.