Trophy Race | Victor Vembanyama, the new defense minister?

80% to GM, 100% to BasketUSA. When thinking about our predictions for the title of defender of the year, only one name came back to everyone’s lips, that Victor Vembanyama. Generally considered by NBA executives to be the league’s best defender, within the Spurs is our heavy favorite to win his first “DPOI” title.

It is probably only a matter of time before “Wembi” wins this award. That could happen as early as 2024/25, when he was heavily favored by bookies after an excellent first part of the season (3.8 blocks, NBA leader, 11 rebounds, 5. “Defensive rating” individual behind four Thunder players). But his deep vein thrombosis spoiled everything, depriving the Frenchman of the final 30 matches of the season.

Not meeting the NBA’s criteria for the number of games played, Victor Wembanyama had to watch from afar Evan Mobley win the betjust reward for the Cavaliers interior as well. This season, this is one of the main challenges for the Spurs star: simply being on the floor. Or in any case, at least 65 games to qualify for end-of-season awards.

If he succeeds and maintains the momentum of his first two seasons, it’s a safe bet that “Wemby” will be in a very good position to be voted Defensive Player of the Year. His near circle deterrence and his mobility are significant advantages, especially with a few extra centimeters.

Evan Mobley and Deason Daniels in search

There are many contenders behind him, while seven players received first place votes last season. Defending champion Evan Mobley is expected to be the cornerstone of the Cavaliers’ defense, one of the best teams in the entire NBA. Able to hold strong inside rackets as well as “switch” wide, he is a defender, even if less spectacular than Victor Wembanyama can be.

And fewer than average interceptions Dyson Danielshis first hound in the hierarchy last season. The Australian could benefit from the collective progress the Hawks are expected to feature more prominently. His three steals per game were unheard of in 33 years in the NBA, surpassing John Stockton’s 2.98 steals in 1991/92.

By staying at these heights, he will undoubtedly be one of the most talked about names at the end of the season. If he manages to increase his numbers further, he could become a serious client for Victor Vembanyama.

Thompson Brothers in the spotlight?

Among other potential candidates, Amen Thompson he has a good advantage as an underdog while his progress will be one of the most notable this season. The Rockets player is poisoned with his exceptional athleticism and instincts (1.4 steals, 1.3 blocks).

Highlighted by the Thunder’s fantastic season on this side of the floor, Lou Dort could not do better than fourth place in the 2024/25 vote. He will have to work hard to climb one or more ranks. Ivica Zubac could suffer from reduced playing time among the Clippers who strengthened inside during the offseason.

The regulars of this classification remain as Draymond Green (Warriors) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Bucks), always ranked, or better yet based on their team’s results, or their presence on other individual award rankings. Among the new faces of the fight for DPOI Ausar Thompson (Clips) if spared from injury, i Toumani Camara (The Blazers) can also raise some hopes.

OUR FAVORITE

• Victor Wembanyama (Spurs)

2024-2025 stats: 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.1 steals, 3.8 blocks

NOSE OUTSIDERS

2024-2025 stats: 18.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.6 blocks

2024-2025 stats: 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 3 steals, 0.7 blocks

2024-2025 stats: 14.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.4 steals, 1.3 blocks

2024-2025 stats: 11.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.6 blocks

Our defensive five of the season

Amen Thompson – Dyson Daniels – Tumani Kamara – Evan Mobley – Victor Wembanyama

Mentioned: Lou Dort, Ausar Thompson, Jalen Suggs, Anthony Davis, Ivica Zubac