Raptors’ Barnes and Thunder’s Wallace Quietly Ascend in NBA Rankings
In early November 2024, Scottie Barnes of the Toronto Raptors and Cason Wallace of the Oklahoma City Thunder received significant recognition in the NBA. Both players earned Defensive Player of the Month honors for their respective conferences for October and November.
Scottie Barnes: A Defensive Force for the Raptors
Scottie Barnes made history by becoming the first player in Toronto Raptors history to win the Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month award. His defensive prowess played a crucial role in helping the Raptors achieve a 14-7 record early in the season.
Barnes stands out as a remarkable defensive player. He is currently the only NBA player with over 30 steals and 30 blocks this season. He averages four deflections per game, ranking fourth in the Eastern Conference and tenth in the league overall.
Key Stats for Scottie Barnes
- Points per game: 19.9
- Rebounds per game: 8
- Assists per game: 5
- Defensive rating: 111.5
- Blocks at buzzer in victory against Charlotte: Yes
Barnes has been pivotal in securing victories for the Raptors, including a critical block against Charlotte that clinched a game for his team. His overall contributions significantly enhance Toronto’s defensive capabilities.
Cason Wallace: Rising Star for the Thunder
Cason Wallace also achieved a milestone by winning the Western Conference Defensive Player of the Month award. This marks his first such honor in his career, showcasing his growth in the NBA.
Wallace has been a consistent starter for the Thunder, participating in all 20 games thus far. His defensive skills have not only earned him accolades but have also contributed to Oklahoma City holding the best defensive rating in the league.
Key Stats for Cason Wallace
- Steals per game: 2.20 (leading the NBA)
- Deflections per game: 5.0 (leading the Western Conference)
- Points per game: 8.7
- Rebounds per game: 2.9
- Assists per game: 2.6
His contribution to the Thunder’s success includes leading them to boast a defensive rating of 103.6, with a significant margin over the second-best team.
Conclusion
Both Scottie Barnes and Cason Wallace have made remarkable strides within their teams. These achievements reflect their hard work and dedication on the court, as they continue to redefine defensive excellence in the NBA.
