Everyone always pays attention to the players that can score, but let’s take a look at some of the Defensive Player of the Year candidates in the NBA.

1. Dwight Howard, Orlando Magic
Based on statistics alone, it’d be hard to give the 2008-09 NBA Defense Player of the Year trophy to anyone other than Howard. He’s not only leading the league in rebounding at over 14 boards per game, he’s far and away leading the NBA in blocked shots. Although not a great one-on-one defender, his stats don’t lie.

2. Chris Paul, New Orleans Hornets
Those who vote for the DPOY award often look at stelas as an indicator of defensive play. Paul is leading the league in steals at 2.82 steals per game. He also got some extra attention lately for breaking the all-time record for consecutive games with at least one steal.

3. Kevin Garnett, Boston Celtics
Last season, Garnett took home the Defensive Player of the Year honors. This season, his Celtics are once again the best defensive team in the NBA. If they continue to win at their current pace, Garnett has a very real chance of repeating his award win in this category.

4. Marcus Camby, Los Angeles Clippers
Right now, Camby’s stats would look very good if not for Howard. Camby is second to Howard in both rebounding and shot blocking. But if Howard slumps and the Clippers start to win more games, Camby could enter the conversation. He won this award two years ago so he has precedence on his side, at least.

5. LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers
While this is definitely a surprise name to be up for the Defensive Player of the Year award, James deserves the consideration. Behind the Celtics, the Cavs are the second best defensive team in the league. Despite playing fewer minutes than usual, he is averaging career-highs in both steals and block. If the media hops on the bandwagon, James could be taking home the Defensive Player of the Year award.

Tags: chris paul, defensive player of the year, dwight howard, kevin garnett, lebron james, marcus camby, nba, nba basketball
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