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The best defender in the NBA is named Jaren Jackson Jr.

As soon as I returned, Anni Jackson Jr knock down the door to participate in the Defender of the Year race. If his team has been part of the defensive elite since his return, it is no coincidence. The 23-year-old infielder really makes a difference in the Memphis Grizzlies racket.

Sometimes a number is worth a thousand words. Prior to November 16, Memphis was 20th in defense in the league with 112.6 points allowed per 100 possessions. Since that date, this average has dropped by 6 points. The difference between these two periods? Jaren Jackson Jr. With their strong wing, the Grizzlies are simply the best defense in the NBA.

The “Block Panther” is perfectly equipped for its mission. At 2.11m high and 2.24m long it really is an undeniable asset for patrolling around the hoop and hampering an opponent’s attack. Best blocker of the season and member of the All-Defensive First Team in 2021-2022, he was no longer really to prove.

Only that the fourth pick of the 2018 draft has reached a whole new level. The Pelicans figured it out despite themselves when Jackson blocked six of their shots Sunday. Zion Williamson limited to 20 points and 6-16 shots. Jonas Valančiūnas unable to pass the 6-point mark. Facing an iron wall, New Orleans has experienced hell.

With great mobility, the interior perfectly fulfills its role as a “helper”. Thus enters the second curtain to stop opposing players when they come within range. A litter which, given its length and physical qualities, appears to be disproportionate.

Inside, outside, Jaren Jackson Jr doesn’t really make a difference. He sweeps everything in his path, that’s all. His 3.2 blocks per game is by far the best average of the 2022-2023 season.

The presence of Steven Adams, a giant of 2.11 m and 120 kg, in the racket allows him to move freely. Then he knows that the basket is already well guarded. This duo resembles the one formed by Giannis Antetokounmpo et Brook Lopez to the Bucks.

“JI think we’ve all been fans of Steve, even before he was here. Now it is clearly easier to love him because he is here and with us than in the opposite camp, ”explains the intern.

What if it was Joel Embiid, Defensive Player of the Year?

Jackson’s presence on the court offers the same serenity to the Grizzlies. They know there is a monster behind them if they let themselves pass and can therefore be more aggressive with the ball. At the slightest signal, the kraken wakes up and spreads its tentacles to close the access to the circle.

With Jaren Jackson Jr it is therefore the whole defensive system of Memphis to change. The four players around him see each action differently. His impact is such as to transform the game of his entire collective.

“I’ve never had such a defensive pace before. I really don’t know what caused it and I don’t even know if I want to find out. I just want to ride the wave,” says the interested. .

Previously, the JJJ machine was much more fallible. Then he bit too often at feints and tended to let himself be manipulated by cunning attackers. Too often embarrassed by his faults, his contribution was thus limited by the fear of expulsion.

This season, the interior shows more maturity. This problem is much rarer today. Overall, he also had more blocks (3.2 average) than fouls (2.9) during the game.

His biggest problem solved, nothing is stopping Jaren Jackson Jr from shining. Already in the elite in everyone’s eyes, he indeed becomes a candidate for the title of best defender in the NBA. Moreover he is already currently, although this title is very unofficial. As for the trophy, the question will above all be that of continuity, with which the interior could very well close the debate.

Hakeem Olajuwon gave the NBA the Defender of the Year award after him

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