The Bucks are off to a great start this season. They sit at 9-1 and have many players that are putting up huge stats. Giannis Antetokounmpo has found himself at the top of many lists in this early NBA season. He has topped early MVP lists thanks to his stats and his leadership. It is no surprise that Giannis debuts as no. 1 on the NBA app’s defensive player ladder.
Giannis Debuts At No. 1 On NBA Defensive Player Ladder
Reigning #KiaDPOY Marcus Smart debuts at No. 2 while Giannis Antetokounmpo takes the top spot on the first NBA App Defensive Player Ladder!
➡️https://t.co/QHOr5PbjIT pic.twitter.com/Uw3CLlbSXY
— NBA (@NBA) November 8, 2022
While the focus has been on Giannis’ offensive stats (for good reason) his defensive stats have been off the charts. According to Statmuse, Giannis has a defensive rating of 97.0 this year. Teams are finding it nearly impossible to score when being guarded by Giannis. He is averaging 1.4 blocks and 1.1 steals per game which are ridiculous numbers considering how much offensive output he is having. Many players are only locked in on one side of the ball but Giannis is dominating on both ends of the court.
Giannis Has The Potential For A Huge Season
There is still a lot of the season to go. The Bucks still have 72 games to play. If Giannis can keep these kinds of numbers going, he will be in for a historic season. He has a legitimate shot at MVP and Defensive Player of the Year. One would expect that he would also be in the running for All-NBA First Team if these types of stats continue. From an individual perspective, Giannis has the chance to do something special this season.
It is awesome to watch a player that is so locked in on both sides of the ball. Seeing Giannis at no. 1 on the defensive player ladder is something that should excite Bucks fans. Again, there is a lot of season to go and many other teams in the East are looking elite as well but the Bucks look poised for a deep playoff run this year.
Follow me on Twitter at @sorcerermatt, and follow us @WiSportsHeroics. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Wisconsin sports, click here!
