Defensive Player of the Year: JaVale McGee
Welcome to the re-emergence of big man JaVale McGee. McGee has hit a few rough patches since joining the league back in 2008. The former 18th overall pick by the Washington Wizards, he took some heat in the early going of his career for his work ethic.
As a rookie with the Wizards, he put up 6.5 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per contest. Despite showing flashes of potential, he was traded to the Denver Nuggets, then traded to the Philadelphia 76ers before being waived. He played briefly with the Dallas Mavericks as well but was ultimately waived by them as well.
Fast forward to 2018-19 and McGee has now won two NBA titles with the Golden State Warriors. He made quite the impact as their reserve center, averaging 5.5 points and 2.9 rebounds per game. With Los Angeles, he should emerge as the starting center.
Given that possibility, McGee could earn Defensive Player of the Year votes by anchoring the Lakers’ defense in the paint. Aside from his willingness to block shots, McGee also has the ability to leave the paint and guard 3-point shooters. It’s a long shot, but winning the award would make him the first Lakers player since Michael Cooper (1986-87) to win the award.