There is a debate raging around NBA circles that is centered on the Detroit Pistons.
Detroit has had the best defensive rating in the NBA since January 1st, and Ausar Thompson and Isaiah Stewart have been the catalysts.
Stewart has been one of the best rim protectors in the league and Thompson one of the best perimeter defenders.
But neither of them will be featured on the NBA’s All-Defensive team, as neither will meet the requirements for postseason awards, which state you have to play in 65 games for at least 20 minutes to be eligible for All-NBA or All-Defensive teams.
I am not a fan of either of these rules, and not just because they affect the Pistons, as no one was missing 15-20 games per season for “load management,” so you are essentially punishing players for getting injured, which I don’t like.
The minutes minimum makes even less sense, as it erases players who have an impact off the bench, and this year, will keep some of the best defenders in the league off the All-Defensive team.
Fans and media are rapidly discovering that some of the guys they thought had a chance will not be eligible.
Keon Ellis
Ellis has had a solid defensive season for the Kings, mostly off the bench, and has already appeared in 65 games, averaging 23 minutes per game.
He’s a disruptive and tenacious defender who averages 1.4 steals per game and is 6th in overall deflections this season.
But he’s only played 20+ minutes 41 times, so won’t be on the All-Defensive team.
The OKC Thunder
The Thunder are the best defensive team in the league and I am sure someone will be rewarded for it, possibly Lu Dort.
But it won’t be All-Defensive mainstay Alex Caruso, who won’t hit the minimum games or minutes and it won’t be Aaron Wiggins (who is quietly very good), who has only played 20+ minutes 41 games. Isaiah Hartenstein will also be ineligible.
The Thunder won’t care, as they have a title on their minds, but there should be individual rewards for the guys who make up the best defense in the league and are a big part of their success.
Amen Thompson
Ausar’s brother Amen will also get some consideration, but right now, he is on the cusp of not being eligible, as he has only played 60 games and more than 20+ minutes 56 times.
He’s currently injured, though should return soon, so it will be interesting if he gets to the minimums after having a fantastic defensive season for the Rockets.
I do believe the minutes minimum will get a look from the NBA in the offseason, as it is not really having the intended effect, but instead is punishing players who have smaller, but significant roles for their teams.