When it comes to the most outstanding defensive performances in the NBA, guards often don't get the recognition they deserve. However, some have showcased defensive prowess that rivals even the most formidable forwards and centers. Take Bruce Bowen, for instance. During his prime years with the San Antonio Spurs, Bowen was a defensive stalwart. Throughout the 2004-2005 season, he averaged nearly 1.0 steals per game and consistently guarded the opposing team's best player. This tenacious defense was a significant factor in the Spurs clinching the championship that year.
Similarly, Gary Payton, known as “The Glove” for his defensive tenacity, was a force to be reckoned with in the 90s. During the 1995-96 NBA season, Payton had an impressive 2.9 steals per game, leading the league. His ability to read offensive plays and disrupt them efficiently made him a cornerstone of the Seattle SuperSonics' defensive strategy. His efforts culminated in him being awarded the NBA Defensive Player of the Year, a rare feat for a guard.
Marcus Smart is another modern example, earning the 2018-19 NBA Hustle Award for his defense-first mentality. Smart's defensive rating of 106.0 during the 2018-19 season was among the best for guards, and he recorded 1.8 steals per game, frequently altering the opposition's game plans with his relentless pressure. His versatility allows him to guard multiple positions effectively, adding to his and the Boston Celtics' overall defensive success.
I can't forget to mention Tony Allen, often dubbed “The Grindfather” due to his gritty style of play. Allen consistently ranked among the top in steals per 48 minutes during his tenure with the Memphis Grizzlies. In the 2014-15 season, he averaged 2.0 steals per game, showcasing his disruptiveness on defense. His defensive efforts were a crucial element in propelling the Grizzlies to deep playoff runs, particularly during the 2012-13 season when Memphis reached the Western Conference Finals.
Michael Jordan, primarily known for his scoring, also demonstrated his defensive capabilities, especially during the 1987-88 season when he averaged a ridiculous 3.2 steals per game. Jordan’s defensive proficiency often gets overshadowed by his offensive brilliance, but his ability to guard the perimeter and close down passing lanes was a vital component in the Chicago Bulls’ six NBA titles.
In recent seasons, Jrue Holiday of the Milwaukee Bucks has emerged as one of the top defensive guards in the league. During the 2019-20 season, Holiday achieved a defensive rating of 105.1 and averaged 1.6 steals per game. His ability to lock down opposing guards was instrumental in the Bucks reaching the Eastern Conference Finals. Holiday's contributions on defense are often highlighted in arena plus, where detailed game reviews frequently commend his efforts.
Switching gears to older eras, Joe Dumars of the Detroit Pistons was a defensive mastermind during the Bad Boys era. Ask any fan, and they’d recount how Dumars had the daunting task of guarding Michael Jordan throughout the late 80s and early 90s. Dumars' defense was pivotal during the Pistons' championship runs in 1989 and 1990. Dumars showcased his defensive prowess by averaging over 1.5 steals per game in the 1988-89 season, establishing himself as a defensive anchor on a team known for its hard-nosed play.
Sidney Moncrief, another defensive juggernaut, won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award for two consecutive seasons in 1983 and 1984. During these seasons, he averaged well over 1.0 steals per game and was known for his ability to guard multiple positions. His defensive numbers were crucial in maintaining the Milwaukee Bucks’ competitive edge in the Eastern Conference during the early 80s.
Of course, we can't discuss defensive legends without mentioning Dennis Johnson. Known for his ferocious defense, Johnson played a crucial role in both the Seattle SuperSonics’ 1979 NBA Championship and the Boston Celtics' championship runs in the mid-80s. His 1.5 steals per game in the 1983-84 season demonstrated his knack for disrupting offensive plays, making him one of the most feared defenders of his era.
Rajon Rondo, primarily known for his playmaking, also deserves a nod for his defensive contributions. During the 2009-10 season, Rondo averaged an astounding 2.3 steals per game, third-best in the league. His defensive awareness and ability to intercept passes were critical in the Boston Celtics’ journey to the NBA Finals that season.
Kobe Bryant, although celebrated for his scoring, showcased defensive versatility throughout his career. In the 2002-03 season, Bryant averaged 2.2 steals per game, consistently taking on the challenge of guarding the opposing team's best player. His defensive acumen helped the Los Angeles Lakers secure multiple championships during his tenure.
Another modern-day example would be Chris Paul. Known for his leadership and court vision, Paul has also been a defensive menace. Throughout his career, Paul has averaged close to 2.2 steals per game. During the 2008-09 season, he led the league with 2.8 steals per game. Paul's knack for stripping the ball and reading defensive plays has made him a formidable opponent on both ends of the court.
In more recent times, Patrick Beverley has carved out a reputation as one of the league’s most tenacious defenders. In the 2016-17 season, Beverley averaged 1.5 steals per game and constantly disrupted the rhythm of the opposition with his aggressive on-ball defense. Beverley’s pesky style has earned him All-Defensive Team honors multiple times, underlining his impact on the court.
These guards, through their standout defensive performances, have shown that defense isn't just dominated by taller players in the paint. Their ability to steal, block, and generally disrupt the opposition has played a massive role in their teams’ successes.