Golden State Warriors: Handing out end-of-the-year team awards

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 02: DeMarcus Cousins #0 of the Golden State Warriors is congratulated by Stephen Curry #30 after he made a basket against the Denver Nuggets at ORACLE Arena on April 02, 2019 in Oakland, California. 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 Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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Defensive Player of the Year

While this was also a hard decision and one many will disagree with, the pick for Defensive Player of the Year goes to Kevin Durant. The likely candidate, Draymond Green, will still be an award recipient.

Durant is averaging just 1.1 blocks and 0.7 steals per game. However, his lengthy 6-foot-9 frame with an insane 7-foot-5 wingspan makes him an ideal defender against any opposing force. His 2.9 defensive win shares tie his total last season.

While Green does have a better defensive rating, Durant has the team’s second-best net rating, factoring in his offensive prowess as well.

For Durant, it’s more about the fact that he holds his matchup to under 41% shooting. While a margin difference, Green’s matchup has shot over 42% from the field this season. Those few percentage points could have led to hundreds of points throughout the season.

Durant’s defense doesn’t get near as much credit as it should. He oftentimes is tasked with guarding some of the league’s most prominent offensive players. He’s done well, obviously limiting the majority of his opponents.

Combine those and tack on his leadership, and you have why we choose Kevin Durant for Defensive Player of the Year.

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