Walking into the Staples Center, the crowd buzzes with excitement. The Los Angeles Lakers boast one of the best defensive trios in NBA history: LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Dwight Howard. When you talk about their defensive statistics, it’s mind-blowing. LeBron, at age 38, still clocks in defensive ratings that defy logic. Take their 2020 championship season, for instance—they had a combined defensive rating average of around 105.5. That’s pretty impressive for any team, let alone these legends.
Next on the list, let’s visit the TD Garden in Boston. Here we’ll find Marcus Smart, Robert Williams III, and Jaylen Brown. These three make the Celtics’ defense legendary. Did you know Marcus Smart won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2022? I mean, that’s no small feat. His ability to read the offense and disrupt plays is second to none. Overall, their defensive rating hovered around 108 in the 2021-2022 season, putting them among the elite in the league.
Moving over to the Bay Area, the Golden State Warriors have their own formidable trio: Draymond Green, Andrew Wiggins, and Klay Thompson. Draymond Green, a perennial contender for Defensive Player of the Year, anchors this trio with his versatility. He switches so effectively between guarding big men and quicker guards; that’s rare. In terms of stats, their combined defensive efforts brought the Warriors a defensive rating around 106.8 during their 2022 playoff run. That consistency is crazy given the fast-paced nature of today’s game.
A short trip to Milwaukee reveals Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jrue Holiday, and Brook Lopez anchoring the Bucks’ defense. Giannis, often in the MVP conversation, also excels defensively. With his insane wingspan and agility, he’s a block machine. Imagine facing him and Holiday, who was an All-Defensive First Team in 2021. Together, they provide a defensive rating of around 107.5. The Bucks’ defensive prowess played a key role in their 2021 championship win.
Over in Miami, things get heated with Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, and P.J. Tucker. This trio epitomizes toughness. Bam’s shot-blocking and rim protection combined with Jimmy’s perimeter defense create a nightmare for opponents. P.J. Tucker, known for his grit, complements them perfectly. They had a solid defensive rating of approximately 109 in the 2021-22 season, making them a top defensive team in the league.
Heading up to Toronto, Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, and OG Anunoby form a formidable defensive wall for the Raptors. Siakam’s length and athleticism make him a great rim protector while VanVleet’s quick hands lead to lots of steals. OG Anunoby, often underrated, does everything well defensively. This trio held their ground with a defensive rating of 110 in the previous season, keeping the team competitive in tough matchups.
In Utah, fans at the Vivint Arena cheer for Rudy Gobert, Mike Conley, and Royce O’Neale. Gobert, a multiple-time Defensive Player of the Year, is the Jazz’s defensive anchor. His shot-blocking skills are off the charts. Conley and O’Neale add perimeter defense, bringing the team’s defensive rating to about 106.5 in the last season. Teams dread going against them because of Gobert’s presence in the paint.
Taking it to the Big Apple, the New York Knicks rely on Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, and Nerlens Noel. Madison Square Garden roars when these three take the floor. Randle’s physical play, paired with Robinson’s knack for blocks and Noel’s energy, results in a cohesive defensive unit. They recorded a defensive rating of about 108.7 in the 2021-22 season. For a city that loves defense, this trio delivers.
Over in Denver, Nikola Jokic, Aaron Gordon, and Michael Porter Jr. carry the Nuggets’ defensive load. Jokic, primarily known for his offensive skills, has improved defensively each season. Aaron Gordon’s athleticism makes him a versatile defender, and Michael Porter Jr.’s length disrupts on the wing. They’ve managed a defensive rating of 110.3, emphasizing a balanced approach to their game strategy.
In Philadelphia, the Wells Fargo Center sees Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and Matisse Thybulle create havoc for opposing teams. Embiid’s shot-blocking and rebounding are elite, Simmons’ versatility covers multiple positions, and Thybulle’s defensive IQ stands out. Their combined effort results in a defensive rating around 106, making them one of the best defensive teams in the East.
Finally, let’s not forget the gritty Memphis Grizzlies and their trio of Jaren Jackson Jr., Dillon Brooks, and Steven Adams. This group embodies what “Grit and Grind” stands for. Jackson Jr.’s shot-blocking is phenomenal, Brooks’ perimeter defense is relentless, and Adams’ physicality disrupts opponents. With a defensive rating of about 109, they’re a team nobody wants to face in a seven-game series.
Exploring these defensive trios, it’s clear that defense wins games, and in many cases, championships. Their combined efforts, unique skills, and stats make for fascinating basketball. Want to catch these games live? Check out arena plus for details. Watching these top-tier defenders perform live is an experience you won’t forget.