NBA’s Best Defensive Teams of the 2020s: Arena Plus Guide

When it comes to NBA’s best defensive teams of the 2020s, there’s no way to ignore the sheer dominance of the Milwaukee Bucks. This team has consistently ranked at the top in defensive ratings. They allowed just 106.3 points per 100 possessions during the 2020-2021 season, which was an outstanding feat considering the average league defensive rating was 112.3. The Bucks’ defensive efficiency can be attributed to their robust zone defenses and incredible shot-blocking abilities. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year during that season, often led the charge with his unmatched agility and wingspan.

Another team that made headlines for their stellar defense is the Los Angeles Lakers. With a defensive rating of 106.8 in the 2019-2020 season, the Lakers capitalized on their roster’s versatility and depth. Anthony Davis’ presence in the paint, combined with LeBron James’ ability to guard multiple positions, created a formidable barrier for opponents. During the 2020 NBA Finals, the Lakers managed to hold the Miami Heat to an average of 96.5 points per game, showcasing their defensive prowess. That kind of performance isn’t just a fluke but a testament to their cohesive team strategy and commitment to defensive fundamentals.

Looking at the Boston Celtics, their defensive strategies have also set them apart. The Celtics focused on a switch-all defense led by Marcus Smart, who won the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022. With a defensive rating of 107.3 in the 2021-2022 season, they proved themselves a tough nut to crack. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown added more than just offensive firepower; their length and speed contributed significantly to Boston’s defensive schemes, often stifling the league’s top scorers.

Let’s not forget the Utah Jazz. Known primarily for their offense, the Jazz surprisingly recorded a 107.5 defensive rating in the 2020-2021 season. Rudy Gobert, often called the “Stifle Tower,” played a massive role in that achievement. His rim protection skills, with an average of 2.7 blocks per game, anchored Utah’s defense. Not to mention, Gobert’s ability to alter shots and grab defensive rebounds made him a unique asset. For the stats nerds, this translated into the Jazz leading the league with a +9.2 net rating, underlining their balanced excellence on both ends of the floor.

The Miami Heat also deserve an honorable mention. They might not have cracked the top defensive ratings consistently, but their 2022-2023 season showcased their potential. With a defensive rating of 108.1, the Heat leveraged the strategic genius of coach Erik Spoelstra. Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and P.J. Tucker brought grit and tenacity, often frustrating opponents’ key players. Butler’s knack for stealing—averaging 1.8 steals per game—paired nicely with Adebayo’s all-around defensive skill set.

In the 2020s, some teams have clearly set themselves apart from the rest. Defensive analytics and traditional stats alike highlight the strengths and strategies of these top squads. As we move further into the 2020s, it’s likely these franchises, and emerging others, will continue to refine their defensive tactics to stay ahead of the competition. For an in-depth analysis and latest trends, you might want to check out arena plus, your go-to resource for everything NBA.

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