“I want to be in that [DPOY] conversation as well, and I think I’ve earned the right to at least be in the conversation,” Draymond Green said last year after hearing the names of younger stars getting into the discussion all summer but not his. As a mastermind of the Warriors’ defense for over a decade, he believed he at least deserved to be on the list. If that wasn’t enough, he also pointed out the qualities that set him apart and make him deserving of a spot.

On the recent episode of The Draymond Green Show with Baron Davis, Dray boldly told his co-host, “I think, for me personally, I protect the rim, I can guard the pick and roll, I can trap the pick and roll, and still guard my man without help, which I think is a skill that I have in the NBA that I don’t think anyone else possesses.”

Further highlighting his unique defensive ability, Draymond specified how he can trap a very skilled offensive player like Damian Lillard during a pick-and-roll play and then quickly recover to defend Giannis Antetokounmpo when he catches the ball in the paint. “I don’t think there’s anyone in the NBA that can trap Damian Lillard on the ball screen and get back to Giannis when Giannis catches the ball in the pocket with no help. I don’t think there’s anyone who can do that.” the 35-year-old added. This requires both speed and defensive awareness that Draymond emphasized he can do without relying on his teammates.

“I think that’s what separates me largely. And then also, my basketball IQ, I think I see plays way before they happen,” he claimed. “I can spot something, I can sniff something out in a heartbeat, and I’m quick enough, I’m strong enough to react and address the issue.”

Draymond Green undoubtedly has a sharp understanding of defense, and his DPOY title is proof of it. Even this season, he has stepped up exceptionally with averages of 6.2 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 1.1 blocks. It seems like he’s determined to get back to the form he had in the 2016-17 season.

While Draymond was making his case for a spot in the DPOY race, which is quite intense now, there were also calls questioning a Cavaliers player’s status in the running for the title.

Questions raise regarding Evan Mobley’s status in DPOY race

On The Hoop Collective Podcast, while discussing Evan Mobley’s chances for DPOY title this year, ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst stated, “Evan Mobley’s status for Defensive Player of the Year, in my opinion, has taken some hits this week, including in the game you were at, where Ivica Zubac had 20 rebounds by himself, and the Cavs had 29 as a team.” He was referring to the Clippers vs. Cavaliers game, where Ivica Zubac dominated the Cavs, finishing with 20 rebounds on his own.

Mobley’s 9.2 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game this season do make him a contender for the title. Though he has been in the race, there have been times when the 23-year-old has been targeted by opponents, and that has cost the team. “He’s having a great year, but we’re evaluating the Cavs as a championship contender, and I’m watching teams target Evan Mobley… He got beat up by the big boy in the Clippers. There’s going to be more big boys out there,” the National reporter highlighted.

Who do you think deserves to be in the DPOY discussion? Is it Draymond Green, who is showcasing his skills and stepping up his game, or Evan Mobley, whose chances seem to be slipping? Let us know in the comments below!