Ranking the top 10 defensive players in the NBA in the 21st century

#6 Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks celebrates defeating the Phoenix Suns in the 2021 NBA Finals

The NBA will forever remember Giannis Antetokounmpo as one of the most complete players to ever play the game. While there are arguments about him winning the 2019 NBA Defensive Player award over Rudy Gobert, the Greek Freak got to work and made sure he won it the following season. With his performance, he joined an elite class of players that have won the NBA MVP and DPOY awards in the same season.

Giannis' athleticism has set him apart from others. His chase-down block in the 2021 NBA Finals is a clear example of his athleticism and versatility.

With age on his side, it is expected that Giannis will make more NBA All-Defensive Team selections and perhaps DPOY. However, he is currently a 4-time All-NBA Defensive Team selection.

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#5 Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard #39 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts after a dunk

Dwight Howard started his NBA career with the Orlando Magic and made an immediate impact, averaging a double-double in his rookie season. His efforts were recognized, resulting in his selection for the NBA All-Rookie First Team.

Dwight Howard8x All-Star8x All-NBA3x DPOY5x All-Defensive5x Rebound Champ2x Block ChampNBA CHAMPION pic.twitter.com/tYL0ErbxSg

— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) October 12, 2020

Howard, in his prime, was perhaps the scariest defender to meet at the rim in an NBA matchup. Although he has not been as dominant in recent years, he still shows glimpses of his shot-blocking ability.

In 2009 and 2010, Howard led the NBA in blocks, which was the start of every major defensive award the big man got later down the line. The 35-year-old has is a 3-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, 5-time rebounding leader, and 5-time All-Defensive selection.

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#4 Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers

Kawhi Leonard is not popular for his defensive abilities. However, he is an elite lock-down defender and has shown it on several occasions.

Reigning DPOY Kawhi Leonard did a lot more than defense for @spurs in 2015#Top10Plays: https://t.co/wBoN9nK3nm pic.twitter.com/GcyDzdkDrf

— NBA.com (@NBAcom) December 31, 2015

Leonard has bagged two NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards. While it might not seem like much, it is a big deal considering that he plays as a small forward. He led the league in steals during the 2014-15 season and has also made the NBA All-Defensive Team.