1. Draymond Green
The undersized four-man was robbed of the Defensive Player of the Year trophy last season as he finished runner-up to Kawhi Leonard.
In 79 games, Green held his opponents below their regular shooting percentage when he defended them, per NBA.com. Whether it was from beyond the arc, within five feet, ten feet, or even just a mid-range jumper, Green did it all.
He didn’t do it against just guys his size, either. He’s known for being able to defend multiple positions. He slipped in the 2012 NBA Draft because it was unknown as to which position he would guard in the league. Scouts thought he couldn’t guard anyone well due to his lack of size and being out of shape. Well, now he’s the opposite.
Green is considered the heartbeat of the team for a reason. He can guard guards, wings, forwards and centers. His versatility on the defensive side of the ball makes him the best defender on the team. Look for him to progress even more on that side of the ball this season.