Who are the Best Defenders in NBA 2K23? (2024)

Defense is critical in basketball and can stifle the opposition, prevent good looks, and force a bad shot. The same holds virtually in NBA 2K23. So you need to know the best defenders in the game. In that name, here is our list of top defenders in NBA 2K23.

1. Kawhi Leonard (98 DCNST)

• Overall Rating: 94
• Position: SF, PF
• Team: Los Angeles Clippers
• Archetype: 2-Way 3-Level Point Forward
• Best Stats: 98 Defensive Consistency, 97 Perimeter Defence, 97 Help Defence IQ

Despite missing the 2021–2022 season with an injury, Kawhi Leonard is still among the league’s best. “The Klaw” made his mark early in San Antonio because of his defense and has been named to no less than seven All-Defensive Teams and has won Defensive Player of the Year on two occasions. He is a formidable player on both ends of the floor, with an impressive array of steals and blocks at his disposal. His 94 overall score in the game showcases Leonard is arguably the best two-way player. If you want him to join your MyTeam, you can buy cheap MT 2K23 from u4gm.com while enjoying efficient and quality service!

2. Giannis Antetokounmpo (95 DCNST)

• Overall Rating: 97
• Position: PF, C
• Team: Milwaukee Bucks
• Archetype: 2-Way Slashing Playmaker
• Best Stats: 95 Defensive Consistency, 95 Perimeter Defence, 96 Help Defence IQ

Giannis Antetokounmpo — The Greek Freak — can dominate opponents with scoring and defense. He seems to progress at an astronomical rate each season, adding more weapons to become one of the most dominant players in the league. In the past few years, he has secured many rewards, such as Most Improved Player, All-Star MVP, NBA Title Holder, and Defensive Player of the Year. He has secured the highest ranking due to his unique playstyle and unbelievable Dunk Shot skills.

3. Joel Embiid (95 DCNST)

• Overall Rating: 96
• Position: C
• Team: Philadelphia 76ers
• Archetype: 2-Way 3-Level Scorer
• Best Stats: 95 Defensive Consistency, 96 Interior Defence, 96 Help Defence IQ

Joel Embiid possesses a three-time spot on the NBA All-Defensive Team, making him one of the most dominant players in recent years. He has also scored his fair share of baskets, averaging 30.6 points during the 2021–2022 season. Joel is a big man that dominates the field with his fast movements and quick reflexes. Although Joel has not been the MVP trophy winner, he won the Scoring title with the help of his unique dunking style, combined with his deep three-point shots. In addition to his aggressive playstyle, Joel possesses some mentionable defensive capabilities, making him a beat in the field.

4. Anthony Davis (95 DCNST)

• Overall Rating: 90
• Position: C, PF
• Team: Los Angeles Lakers
• Archetype: 2-Way Interior Finisher
• Best Stats: 95 Defensive Consistency, 94 Interior Defence, 97 Help Defence IQ

29-year-old Anthony Davis is an eight-time NBA All-Star and has been selected to the All-NBA Defensive Team four times. He is also the first NBA player to win an NCAA title, NBA title, Olympic Gold medal, and FIBA World Cup in his career. He averaged more than 20 points every season after his rookie year, alongside double-digit rebounds.

5. Rudy Gobert (95 DCNST)

• Overall Rating: 88
• Position: C
• Team: Minnesota Timberwolves
• Archetype: Defensive Anchor
• Best Stats: 95 Defensive Consistency, 97 Interior Defence, 97 Help Defence IQ

Rudy Gobert is a fearsome defender who is an absolute animal on the boards, leading the league during the 2021–2022 season. Named Defensive Player of the Year three times in his career, Gobert is one of the league’s best interior defenders (A+). His massive height and wing span make it nearly impossible for opposing players to get near the basket without having their shots blocked.

6. Jrue Holiday (95 DCNST)

• Overall Rating: 86
• Position: PG, SG
• Team: Milwaukee Bucks
• Archetype: 2-Way Scoring Machine
• Best Stats: 95 Defensive Consistency, 95 Perimeter Defence, 89 Help Defence IQ

32-year-old Jrue Holiday has been selected four times to the NBA All-Defensive Team. He was also a part of the successful Bucks side that won the NBA Championship in 2021, playing a key role as one of the best perimeter defenders during his time in the NBA. He averaged 18.3 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds in 67 games in 2021–22.

7. Draymond Green (95 DCNST)

• Overall Rating: 83
• Position: PF, C
• Team: Golden State Warriors
• Archetype: 2-Way Slashing Playmaker
• Best Stats: 95 Defensive Consistency, 92 Interior Defence, 93 Help Defence IQ

Draymond Green has won four NBA Championships and was named a member of the All-NBA Defensive team on seven occasions, as well as winning NBA Defensive Player of the Year and leading the league in steals in 2016–2017. Though Green is not the same player he was in his prime, he is still considered one of the best defensive players in the league. On top of being a 5 position defender that also provides rim protection, he is an elite playmaker and screen setter on the offensive end.

So, this was all about the best defenders in NBA 2K23. Click here to check out our other guides for additional information on this game.