This NBA season is notable for significant injuries to star athletes like Luka Doncic and Joel Embiid, impacting their eligibility for postseason awards. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged unexpectedly as leaders in the East, and the Houston Rockets are making strides in the West. With the season's midpoint reached, discussions around the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) are heating up.

Victor Wembanyama stands out as the frontrunner for DPOY, showcasing remarkable defensive skills that extend beyond his impressive average of 3.9 blocks per game. His impact is evident in the San Antonio Spurs' defensive performance, which ranks significantly higher when he is on the court compared to when he is not. Evan Mobley and Ivica Zubac also have strong claims, having bolstered their teams' defensive stats effectively.