2018 NBA Award Predictions: James Harden, Paul George top the list

By Trey Flynn | Feb 23, 2018

CHARLOTTE, NC - JANUARY 12: Head coach Quin Snyder talks to Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Utah Jazz during their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on January 12, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – DECEMBER 13: Paul George /

(2018 Projections) Defensive Player of the Year:

1. Paul George (Oklahoma City Thunder)

2. Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)

3. Kevin Durant/Jimmy Butler (Golden State Warriors/Minnesota Timberwolves)

Paul George is leading the NBA in steals and he’s been one of the most underrated lock down defenders in the league for quite some time.

With the unfortunate loss of Andre Robertson, George has stepped it up another notch defensively and offensively.

The problem with Defensive Player of the Year is that a lot of what you’re looking for in the nominees can only be seen on film and through their intangibles, not necessarily on the stat sheet.

Embiid, Durant, and Butler all have these in-game moments and intangibles I’m talking about.

I’ll say this, Jimmy Butler is my favorite for DPOY next year, that guy just makes everyone play better defense.

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