Week 20 NBA DPOY Ladder: A new face tops the rankings

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BOSTON, MA – APRIL 6: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics is defended by Matisse Thybulle #22 of the Philadelphia 76ers in the first half at TD Garden on April 6, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts, Week 20 NBA DPOY Ladder: A new face tops the rankings. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) /

There are officially less than 20 games left in the NBA season before the postseason commences. And as mentioned last week, most people are still most concerned with MVP when it comes to awards.

But one race that is as tight as ever is the race for the Defensive Player of the Year award. There are a bunch of different players deserving of votes, but obviously, only one can take home the trophy.

A lot has changed since last week. The Cleveland Cavaliers have faltered, the Phoenix Suns have dealt with significant injuries, and the Boston Celtics have officially claimed the title of ‘best defense in the NBA.’

So with all that in mind, let’s reorder the NBA DPOY Ladder and see who reigns supreme. But first, as usual, here are the weekly honorable mentions.

Week 20 NBA DPOY Ladder: Honorable mentions

Marcus Smart: As mentioned, the Celtics have officially overtaken the Golden State Warriors as the best defense in the NBA this season. Smart is a big reason behind that. (Rank last week: HM)

Evan Mobley: The Cavaliers have hit a bit of a rough patch, and with that, so has their defense. Mobley will still get some All-Defensive votes, but at least for this week, he ends up falling off the ladder. (Rank last week: 5)

Herbert Jones: In a surprise twist, Jones marks the second rookie making an appearance on this list. The New Orleans Pelicans have been clamping up and playing winning basketball lately, and he’s leading the charge on the defensive end. (Rank last week: N/R)

Mikal Bridges: Despite being without both Chris Paul and Devin Booker, the Phoenix Suns are still finding ways to win. Obviously, Cam Johnson was a big reason why the other night, but Bridges’ elite defense is crucial. (Rank last week: HM)

Matisse Thybulle: Ever since James Harden started playing, the Philadelphia 76ers have been rolling. And even though a lot of that comes on the offensive end, Thybulle’s defense is a critical part of their success. (Rank last week: HM)