In a league filled with stars, whenever the NBA hands out awards chances are that many will get snubbed. Before fans go nuts, they should know that the NBA All Defensive teams are picked by position, which makes it almost impossible to narrow down especially at the center position. After some research, here are the NBA's All Defensive Snubs of 2012.
First on the list, and the biggest snub of all, is Atlanta Hawks' Josh Smith. Unlike any of the players who made the All Defensive team, Smith made the top 20 in rebounds, steals and blocks per game. He averaged 9.6 rebounds a game, which is good for 13th in the league, 1.7 blocks a game, good for 9th in the league and 1.4 steals a game, good for 20th.
For those who dare argue that rebounds could be considered an offensive stat too, Smith averaged 7.5 defensive rebounds good for 6th in the league.
Next on my list is Utah Jazz center Al Jefferson. He ranked 12th, in both, rebounds per game with 9.6 and blocks with 1.6 per game.Jefferson's teammate, Paul Millsap, could have also made the list. Millsap was 4th in steals in the 2012 season and averaged just under 9 rebounds a game.
Playing out in Utah may be a reason why these candidates are easily overlooked.
Next on my All Defensive Snubs is 76er Andre Iguodala. An all around great player, known for his ability to penetrate through the toughest defenses in the league, also has the ability to cause turnovers on defense. He was 6th in the league average 1.7 steals per game.
Lastly, the ageless Tim Duncan. He lead his San Antonio Spurs to the top of the Western Conference during the regular season and playing great as they make a run for a championship. Duncan averaged nine rebounds with 1.5 blocks a game.
If all around defense is taken into account, then these players could have easily made the cut. Knick fans should be glad Tyson Chandler was chosen. When you think of it, it does not make sense that the Defensive Player of the Year is not on the First All Defensive team. On the other hand, maybe Knick fans should be quiet and, instead, thankful that their center received the award in the first place.
