When you talk about elite defenders in the NBA, 2025 truly shines with some incredible talents. Take Giannis Antetokounmpo for example. He’s not only a powerhouse on offense but also a beast on defense. His wingspan, measuring 7’3", allows him to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots like few can. In the 2024-2025 season, Giannis averaged 1.3 blocks and 1.8 steals per game. Those numbers speak volumes about his defensive versatility.
But let’s not forget about Ben Simmons. This guy has been under a lot of scrutiny for his offensive game, but you can’t deny his defensive impact. Clocking in at 6’10" with a ridiculous 7’0" wingspan, Simmons can guard multiple positions on the floor. In fact, during a stretch of the season, Simmons held his opponents to just 40% shooting when he was the primary defender, an extremely impressive feat. His capacity to switch onto smaller guards and bigger forwards makes him one of the most valuable defensive assets in the league.
Then there's Rudy Gobert, who’s been a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate. Standing 7’1", Rudy makes you think twice before driving to the rim. He led the league with 2.7 blocks per game this season, proving again why he’s often referred to as the “Stifle Tower.” What separates Gobert from other shot-blockers is his disciplined approach. He contests shots without fouling, maintaining an average of just 2.5 personal fouls per game over the last five seasons. That’s efficiency in protecting the paint without putting his team at a disadvantage.
Speaking of defensive maestros, we have to talk about Matisse Thybulle. He doesn’t get the same offensive accolades as some of his peers, but defensively? He’s an absolute hawk. Thybulle averaged 1.5 steals and 1.1 blocks per game while playing just 20 minutes per game. That’s an absurd rate of production given his playing time. His defensive prowess draws comparisons to defensive legends like Bruce Bowen and Tony Allen, both known for their expert ability to lock down opposing scorers.
Don’t sleep on Bam Adebayo either. He’s the quintessential modern big, offering switchability that’s so crucial in today's game. Adebayo’s agility allows him to guard all five positions, something very few centers in NBA history have accomplished. This dude averaged 1.2 steals and 1.0 blocks per game, often taking on the opposing team's best scorer regardless of their position. His impact goes beyond the stats as he’s a vocal leader who orchestrates the Miami Heat’s defense, making sure everyone is in the right spot.
Kawhi Leonard hasn’t lost a step defensively either. At 6’7" and armed with some of the largest hands in the league, Kawhi possesses the tools to lock down any perimeter player. During the 2024-2025 campaign, he had a defensive win share of 4.7, ranking among the top in the NBA. When Kawhi's on the court, he makes life extremely difficult for the opposing team’s best player, often reducing their scoring efficiency by a significant margin.
Another player making waves is OG Anunoby. This guy has significantly improved his game and has become Toronto’s go-to defender. Anunoby boasts a defensive rating of 102, one of the best among wing players in the league. His ability to read plays and anticipate the opponent’s moves reminds longtime fans of Scottie Pippen, who was a master at those very things. Not only does Anunoby guard the perimeter, but he’s also effective in the post, making him a true all-around defender.
Jrue Holiday deserves mention as well. Known for his tenacity and defensive IQ, Holiday averaged 1.6 steals per game this season. Even more telling is that he held his matchups to a mere 42% shooting. His pressure defense is relentless, causing turnovers and disrupting the flow of the opponent’s offense. His performance in clutch moments often changes the course of games, reminiscent of great defenders like Gary Payton.
You can't ignore Marcus Smart, who won the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year award. This season, Smart averaged 1.7 steals per game and was a defensive dynamo for the Boston Celtics. His ability to read the game and take charges makes him a defensive cornerstone. Not to mention, his leadership and intensity elevate the defense of everyone around him, much like how Draymond Green impacts the Golden State Warriors.
For one last but certainly not least mention, we have De’Andre Hunter. Often flying under the radar, Hunter has evolved into one of Atlanta's most reliable defenders. With an average of 1.1 steals and 0.9 blocks per game, Hunter provides a solid defensive presence on the wing. His work ethic and improvement over the years have not gone unnoticed. People begin to see him as one of the better two-way players the league has to offer.
These players are setting the standard for what it means to be an elite NBA defender in 2025. Their unique abilities, combined with incredible work ethics, have made them indispensable to their teams. If you're curious to read more about these incredible athletes, I’d recommend checking out arena plus.