5 Best defensive players in NBA Draft 2020

NBA Draft 2020.
NBA Draft 2020.

#3 James Wiseman - 2nd pick in NBA Draft 2020

Photo Credit: AP.
Photo Credit: AP.

James Wiseman went to the Golden State Warriors with the second overall pick in NBA Draft 2020.

Wiseman is a 7'1'' center who is versatile and remarkably mobile for his size. His athleticism fits the modern NBA perfectly, as he may need to guard smaller players on a nightly basis.

Wiseman's size allows him to be a good rim protector, but his athleticism will be huge for him around the basket, on both ends of the floor. Moreover, having Draymond Green alongside him could be great for his defensive progress. James Wiseman will probably start, along with Green, and his defensive impact will need to be significant for the revamped Golden State Warriors.


#2 Onyeka Okongwu - 6th pick in NBA Draft 2020

Okongwu is a strong defender.
Okongwu is a strong defender.

Onyeka Okongwu is a solid all-round big man who excels on both sides of the NBA floor. The Atlanta Hawks selected him with the sixth pick of the NBA Draft 2020. It could prove to be a good choice for the Hawks, who are looking to make the playoffs.

Onyeka Okongwu is a unique athlete. At 6'9'', he is athletic and very strong. The rookie also has an excellent vertical. In the Pac-12, he blocked 2.7 shots per game for USC.

Okongwu ranked third in defensive rating, sixth in win shares, and second in defensive box plus/minus in the Pac-12. He also boasts good lateral quickness, which makes him a versatile defender.


#1 Isaac Okoro - 5th pick in NBA Draft 2020

Photo Credit: AP.
Photo Credit: AP.

Isaac Okoro is the best defender in the NBA Draft 2020 class. He is a powerful 6'6'' forward who can keep up with anyone in the NBA, The youngster has all the tools to become a special defender.

Okoro spent just one year at Auburn before going fifth in the NBA Draft 2020 to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In his solitary season in the Southeastern Conference, Okoro averaged a steal and a block per game, which is promising for his size.

He moves well around screens, which is the mark of a smart and efficient defender on the perimeter. Given the modern NBA's 'switch-it-all' approach, he could be a vital presence in those situations.

Okoro not only has the physical ability to play lockdown defense (at 6'6'', 235 pounds), but his passion and desire on the defensive side of the ball are what make him stand out. Okoro's on-ball pressure and size will allow him to guard multiple positions in the NBA.


Also read: 5 players who are favorites to win the 2020-21 NBA Rookie of the Year award

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