As the Pacers’ anchoring force, Myles Turner made a compelling case for Defensive Player of the Year last season. He fell behind Rudy Gobert, Giannis Antetokounmpo and others in the voting, but the case was there — a career-high 2.7 blocks per game, a career low in fouls per game, and vastly improved instincts. He reached the status of elite rim protector and shot 38.8 percent from 3-point range.
A perennial All-Defense threat, Marcus Smart is an absolute stud. He has the bulk to defend four positions, the hustle to win over fans of any affiliation and the offensive skill to contribute both ways. He’s an underrated playmaker, punishes smaller defenders in the post and tallied career-high shooting splits at .422/.364/.806 — although he shot better at the free throw line in 2016-17.
Projecting rookies is difficult and Zion Williamson has the potential to far outperform this spot. In the end, he probably will — not dissimilar to Luka Doncic last season. Williamson is a generational athlete who looks the part of an impact defender and a unique transition threat. He needs to iron out his shot, but the skill level is there. He can handle, pass and finish efficiently at the rim.
Speaking of rookies, did you know Jayson Tatum is only 19? Well, 21, but it’s all the same. Tatum took a step back last season, as his shot selection deteriorated and the Celtics’ chemistry combusted. Now he’s primed for a bounce-back in a more prominent role. He still scored 15.7 points per game with very respectable .450/.373/.855 shooting slashes. His advanced scoring moves and underrated defense deserve credit.
A strong postseason put CJ McCollum back on the map. While not a great defender, he has made strides. That’s in addition to his impressive growth on offense. McCollum was a formidable yang to Damian Lillard‘s yin in the Portland backcourt last season, scoring 21.0 points per game, dropping 3.0 assists and running the show when Dame sat.