Gobert DPOY: Was He Deserving?

Chartdata

You need 2 min read

·

Post on Oct 23, 2024

31 visitor like this post

Share

Gobert's DPOY: Was He Deserving?

The 2021 Defensive Player of the Year award went to Rudy Gobert, the Stifle Tower of the Utah Jazz. But was he truly the most deserving candidate?

The Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award is given to the NBA player who stands out as the best defender in the league. It’s a prestigious award, and it’s often a tough call. This year, however, it felt like a done deal for Rudy Gobert, the Utah Jazz center. But was it really?

Gobert is a defensive monster, that’s for sure. His size and athleticism make him a nightmare for opposing centers, and he’s a master of blocking shots. Gobert’s presence alone can deter teams from attacking the paint, as his “Rudy Gobert Effect” can literally change the way a game is played.

But is he truly the best defender in the league?

Some argue that players like Ben Simmons, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Draymond Green were equally deserving of the award. These players, while not solely focused on rim protection like Gobert, are equally dominant defensively in other areas.

The arguments for Gobert's DPOY:

• Rim protection: Gobert's impact on the Jazz’s defense is undeniable, as he single-handedly shuts down the paint. He’s an absolute monster in the paint.
• Defensive anchor: He’s the leader of a Jazz defense that ranked among the best in the NBA, and his presence allows the team to be aggressive on the perimeter.
• Consistency: Year after year, Gobert has been a consistently dominant defensive force.

The arguments against Gobert's DPOY:

• Limited offensive impact: His lack of an offensive game can be a liability for the Jazz, and it may limit his overall defensive impact.
• Lack of versatility: He’s a dominant force in the paint, but he struggles with guarding more versatile players on the perimeter.
• Other deserving players: Players like Ben Simmons and Draymond Green are just as impactful defensively, and arguably offer more versatility.

The debate continues...

Ultimately, the DPOY award is subjective and there’s no clear-cut answer. Gobert has a strong case, but others certainly deserve a spot in the conversation.

What do you think? Was Gobert the most deserving Defensive Player of the Year?