Sunday, 12 May 2024

Rudy Gobert Named 2020-21 Kia Defensive Player of the Year

Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert has once again been recognized as the 2020-21 Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year, the NBA announced today. This marks Gobert’s third time receiving this prestigious award, adding to his previous wins in the 2017-18 and 2018-19 seasons. Gobert’s outstanding defensive skills have solidified his place among the league’s elite defenders.

Stellar Defensive Performance

Gobert’s impact on the defensive end of the court is undeniable. In his eighth NBA season, Gobert led the league in defensive rebounds per game, total defensive rebounds, and total blocked shots. He ranked second in blocked shots per game, highlighting his dominance as a shot blocker. His prowess on defense is further exemplified by his remarkable performances, including recording six games with at least 15 defensive rebounds and eight games with five or more blocks.

According to NBA Advanced Stats, Gobert ranked second in the NBA in defensive win shares, a metric that measures a player’s defensive impact on winning. He consistently defended the most field goal attempts at the rim in the league, holding opponents to a mere 50.1 percent shooting on those shots. This exceptional defensive performance places him among the top defenders in the NBA.

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Contribution to Team Success

Gobert’s defensive excellence has directly contributed to the success of the Utah Jazz. Behind his leadership, the Jazz finished third in the NBA in defensive rating and second in opponents’ field goal percentage. This strong defensive presence propelled the team to a league-leading 52-20 record and secured the top seed in the Western Conference for the 2021 NBA Playoffs.

Previous Achievements and Career Statistics

Selected as an NBA All-Star for the second time, Gobert averaged 14.3 points and 13.5 rebounds in 71 games this season. He led the NBA in total rebounds and ranked second in rebounds per game. Additionally, Gobert shot a remarkable 67.5 percent from the field, securing his status as one of the league’s most efficient scorers.

Throughout his career, Gobert has consistently demonstrated his defensive prowess. He has career averages of 12.0 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 2.24 blocks in 545 games, all with the Utah Jazz. Moreover, he has been voted to the NBA All-Defensive First Team for the past four seasons.

Conclusion

Rudy Gobert’s recognition as the 2020-21 Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year solidifies his position as one of the league’s premier defenders. His remarkable defensive performance, coupled with his contributions to the success of the Utah Jazz, highlights his impact on the court. As a three-time winner of this prestigious award, Gobert’s defensive prowess continues to impress both fans and experts alike.