3-Time NBA All-Star Ben Simmons Picks His NBA DPOY: Not Bam Adebayo Or Rudy Gobert
When it comes to NBA discussions, there’s always a lot of buzz around awards, stats, and player performances. One of the most prestigious honors in the league is the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award. This year, 3-time NBA All-Star Ben Simmons made headlines by revealing his pick for the DPOY. Spoiler alert: it’s not Bam Adebayo or Rudy Gobert. Now, let’s dive into the details and see why this choice is making waves in the basketball world.
It’s no secret that Ben Simmons has had a polarizing career in the NBA. From being a top-three pick in the 2016 draft to becoming one of the league’s most versatile players, his journey has been nothing short of interesting. But beyond his offensive contributions, Simmons has always been a standout on the defensive end. That’s why his opinion on who should win the DPOY carries a lot of weight.
So, what’s the deal with Simmons’ pick? Well, buckle up because we’re about to break it all down for you. Whether you’re a die-hard NBA fan or just someone who loves a good basketball story, this article is packed with insights, stats, and analysis that you won’t want to miss. Let’s get started!
Here’s a quick roadmap to help you navigate through this article:
- Biography of Ben Simmons
- The Defensive Player of the Year Award
- Who Did Ben Simmons Choose?
- Why Not Bam Adebayo or Rudy Gobert?
- Defense by the Numbers
- What NBA Experts Are Saying
- Simmons’ Legacy in Defense
- Future Predictions for Defensive Players
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Biography of Ben Simmons
Before we dive into Simmons’ pick for the DPOY, let’s take a moment to understand who he is as a player. Ben Simmons was born on July 20, 1996, in Melbourne, Australia. He’s a 6-foot-10 point guard who combines size, speed, and skill in ways few others can. Simmons burst onto the scene during his rookie season with the Philadelphia 76ers, quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with.
Here’s a quick rundown of his career highlights:
- 2016 NBA Draft: Selected #1 overall by the Philadelphia 76ers.
- 2017-2018 Season: Named Rookie of the Year.
- 2018-2019 Season: Earned his first NBA All-Star selection.
- 2020-2021 Season: Voted to the All-Defensive First Team.
Ben Simmons’ Personal Stats
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| Height | 6'10" |
| Weight | 240 lbs |
| Position | Point Guard/Forward |
| Teams | Philadelphia 76ers, Brooklyn Nets |
Simmons’ ability to guard multiple positions makes him a defensive juggernaut. His length, anticipation, and instincts set him apart on the court. Now that we’ve covered his background, let’s talk about the DPOY award.
The Defensive Player of the Year Award
The Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award is one of the most coveted honors in the NBA. It recognizes the player who has made the biggest impact on the defensive side of the ball. Since its inception in 1982-83, the award has been won by some of the greatest defenders in league history, including legends like Michael Jordan, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Kawhi Leonard.
What makes the DPOY so special is that it’s not just about blocking shots or grabbing rebounds. It’s about being a disruptive force, forcing turnovers, and anchoring a team’s defense. In recent years, players like Rudy Gobert and Giannis Antetokounmpo have dominated the award, but this year, there’s a new contender in the mix.
Who Did Ben Simmons Choose?
Alright, here’s the juicy part. When asked about his pick for the DPOY, Ben Simmons didn’t hesitate to name his choice: Mikal Bridges. Yes, you heard that right. Bridges, a 6-foot-6 guard for the Phoenix Suns, has been turning heads with his elite perimeter defense. But why did Simmons choose him over other big-name defenders like Bam Adebayo and Rudy Gobert?
Why Mikal Bridges?
Mikal Bridges has quietly become one of the league’s best defenders. He’s known for his ability to guard multiple positions, lock down star players, and make life difficult for opposing offenses. His defensive rating of 106.5 this season ranks among the best in the league, and his versatility is unmatched.
Simmons explained his choice by saying, “Mikal is just so consistent. He guards the best players every night, and he does it without complaining or looking for the spotlight. That’s what makes him special.”
Why Not Bam Adebayo or Rudy Gobert?
Now, you might be wondering why Simmons didn’t choose Bam Adebayo or Rudy Gobert. Both players have been perennial contenders for the DPOY award, and they’ve earned their stripes as defensive stalwarts. But there are some key differences that set Mikal Bridges apart.
Bam Adebayo is an incredible rim protector and playmaker, but his defensive consistency has been questioned at times. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert has been a dominant force in the paint for years, but his impact is more limited to the interior. Bridges, on the other hand, offers a more well-rounded defensive game that’s crucial in today’s NBA.
Comparison of Defensive Stats
| Player | Blocks per Game | Steals per Game | Defensive Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mikal Bridges | 0.9 | 1.4 | 106.5 |
| Bam Adebayo | 1.2 | 1.1 | 108.2 |
| Rudy Gobert | 2.1 | 0.6 | 104.7 |
While Gobert leads in blocks and has an impressive defensive rating, Bridges’ steal rate and versatility give him the edge in Simmons’ eyes.
Defense by the Numbers
Let’s talk stats. Defense isn’t just about raw numbers; it’s about impact. Mikal Bridges’ defensive win shares (DWS) this season are at 3.3, ranking him among the top 10 players in the league. He’s also been instrumental in reducing opponents’ shooting percentages, especially on the perimeter.
Here’s a breakdown of his defensive stats:
- Opponent FG%: -4.5% when guarded by Bridges.
- Defensive Rebounds: 6.7 per game.
- Defensive Win Shares: 3.3.
These numbers paint a clear picture of Bridges’ value on the defensive end. He’s not just a solid defender; he’s a game-changer.
What NBA Experts Are Saying
The NBA community is buzzing about Mikal Bridges’ DPOY candidacy. Analysts like Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith have praised his defensive efforts, with Smith calling him “the perfect modern-day defender.”
Even opposing coaches have chimed in. Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat said, “Mikal is one of those players who makes you rethink your game plan. He’s so disciplined and smart on defense.”
What the Stats Say
According to ESPN’s Defensive Real Plus-Minus (DRPM), Mikal Bridges ranks third in the league, trailing only Rudy Gobert and Marcus Smart. This metric takes into account a player’s overall defensive impact, including both individual and team contributions.
Simmons’ Legacy in Defense
Ben Simmons’ own defensive legacy is something to marvel at. Despite his offensive struggles, Simmons has consistently been one of the league’s top defenders. His ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses has earned him multiple All-Defensive Team selections.
Simmons’ endorsement of Mikal Bridges isn’t just a random opinion; it’s a reflection of his deep understanding of what it takes to be a great defender. As someone who’s walked in those shoes, his words carry weight.
Future Predictions for Defensive Players
Looking ahead, the NBA is evolving into a more perimeter-oriented league. This means that players like Mikal Bridges, who excel in guarding the three-point line, will become even more valuable. The days of relying solely on big men for defense are fading, and versatility is the name of the game.
Expect to see more guards and wings making a name for themselves on the defensive side. Players like Andrew Wiggins, Patrick Beverley, and Josh Hart are already showing glimpses of greatness, and the future looks bright for defensive-minded players.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who won the DPOY last year?
Rudy Gobert won the DPOY award last season, continuing his dominance as one of the league’s premier defenders.
2. How is the DPOY winner decided?
The DPOY is voted on by a panel of global sportswriters and broadcasters. Each voter ranks their top three choices, with points assigned accordingly.
3. Can a guard win the DPOY?
Absolutely! Players like Marcus Smart and Kawhi Leonard have proven that guards can be just as impactful on defense as big men.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Ben Simmons’ pick for the DPOY is a testament to his understanding of what it takes to be a great defender. While Bam Adebayo and Rudy Gobert are undoubtedly elite defenders, Mikal Bridges brings a unique skill set that sets him apart in today’s NBA. His versatility, consistency, and impact on the game make him a worthy candidate for the award.
As the league continues to evolve, the importance of defense will only grow. Players like Bridges, Simmons, and others are leading the charge, showing that defense can be just as exciting as offense. So, the next time you watch a game, keep an eye on the defensive end. You might just see the next DPOY in action.
What are your thoughts on Mikal Bridges’ DPOY candidacy? Leave a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going. And don’t forget to share this article with your fellow basketball fans!
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