Nugg Love
Fansided

Nugg Love’s top 10 defensive players in NBA history

By Michael Longhofer

Phoenix Suns v Utah JazzSALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 14: Alex Len #21 of the Phoenix Suns blocks the shot by Jonas Jerebko #8 of the Utah Jazz during the second half of a game at Vivint Smart Home Arena on February 14, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Utah Jazz beat the Phoenix Suns 107-97. 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 Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)Getty ID: 918398032
Phoenix Suns v Utah JazzSALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 14: Alex Len #21 of the Phoenix Suns blocks the shot by Jonas Jerebko #8 of the Utah Jazz during the second half of a game at Vivint Smart Home Arena on February 14, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Utah Jazz beat the Phoenix Suns 107-97. 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 Gene Sweeney Jr./Getty Images)Getty ID: 918398032 /
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New Orleans Pelicans v Minnesota TimberwolvesMINNEAPOLIS, MN – APRIL 13: Kevin Garnett #21 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on April 13, 2016 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)Getty ID: 520992942
New Orleans Pelicans v Minnesota TimberwolvesMINNEAPOLIS, MN – APRIL 13: Kevin Garnett #21 of the Minnesota Timberwolves looks on during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on April 13, 2016 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)Getty ID: 520992942 /

Kevin Garnett:  DWS: 91.48

Entering the NBA as the 5th overall pick in 1995, Kevin Garnett was a Chicago High School phenom, garnering Illinois Mr. Basketball honors in addition to McDonald All-American MVP and Mr. Basketball USA.

A gangly 18 year-old, Garnett quickly made an impact in the NBA, earning second-team all-rookie honors.  From there he managed 9 all-defensive first-team nods, 15 all-star appearances, a league MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and an NBA Championship.

The king of the head game, Garnett could create drama with anyone.  He was a relentless defender and pest and improved his game nearly every year he spent in the league.  One of the original stretch 5’s, Garnett shot greater than 30% from 3 during his time in Minnesota.

He remains one of the most feared defensive presences and personalities in the last 25 years and looks like he could still play today.

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