NBA 2018-19: Top 5 lockdown defenders from last season

Giannis Antetokounmpo blocks Fred VanVleet
Giannis Antetokounmpo blocks Fred VanVleet

#3 Draymond Green

Draymond Green defending Danny Green tightly
Draymond Green defending Danny Green tightly

Draymond Green was heavily criticised for his lack of offensive productivity last season. However, the power forward still remained on the floor in crucial moments because Steve Kerr understood his defensive importance.

Throughout the last few years, Green has been the defensive backbone for the Golden State Warriors. With the ability to defend all five positions on the floor, he's a better shot blocker than most give him credit for. In the 18/19 campaign, he averaged 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks per game.

During the season, he constantly used his size and length on the perimeter to get into passing lanes and poke the ball out of opponent hands. Using his excellent timing proved pivotal as he contributed with help defense while protecting the rim continuously.

One aspect of Green's game that makes him stand out over the rest is his communication: he is a leader on the court and he shows precisely that as he's constantly communicating switches to teammates on the defensive end.

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