The NBA's 15 best defenders entering the 2026-27 season
This ranking projects the NBA's best defenders for the upcoming 2026-27 season. It separates bigs, wings/forwards, and guards into top-five lists to highlight different defensive roles. Victor Wembanyama is named the top big man and overall best defender after a unanimous Defensive Player of the Year season.
The piece organizes its 2026-27 defensive projections into three positional groups: bigs, wings/forwards, and guards, with five names in each. It frames rim protection as the most valuable defensive skill, which explains why centers dominate overall impact discussions.
Victor Wembanyama sits first among bigs and overall after a unanimous Defensive Player of the Year campaign. Chet Holmgren and Rudy Gobert follow, with Holmgren favored because he is entering his age-24 season while Gobert is 34. Bam Adebayo and Jaren Jackson Jr. are projection picks.
This ranking may shape fan debate and media narratives around defensive value, especially for players whose contributions don't show in scoring. It could influence how young athletes, coaches, and analysts discuss positional roles, versatility, and rim protection. Teams and sponsors might use such lists in marketing, while fans may gain a broader appreciation for defense. However, rankings are subjective and could oversimplify player impact.