The Cleveland Cavaliers will attempt to improve their defense in the new season, but they already have arguably one of the best defensive players in the league.
According to ClutchPoints, Kendrick Perkins recently unveiled his top five best defensive players in the NBA.
He listed Alex Caruso as the top choice, followed by Cavs star Evan Mobley.
Mobley was then followed by Amen Thompson, Victor Wembanyama, and Luguentz Dort.
No one is surprised to see Mobley on this list, but some people think he should have been higher.
Kendrick Perkins on his top 5 current defensive players in the NBA 👀
1. Alex Caruso
2. Evan Mobley
3. Amen Thompson
4. Victor Wembanyama
5. Luguentz DortThoughts? 🤔
(via @ESPNNBA) pic.twitter.com/sk40QXXBRV
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 6, 2025
Almost everyone agrees that Mobley is a defensive juggernaut.
After all, he was just awarded his first Defensive Player of the Year trophy.
He also earned his first All-Star appearance in 2024-25 and put up the best numbers of his career.
Earning the second spot on this list is great, and Caruso is no joke.
He’s one of the main reasons why the Thunder are now reigning champions.
Again and again throughout his career, Caruso has been the sort of lockdown defender who is eager to take on all opponents, even those much larger than him.
He was a shining star during the playoffs and definitely in the Finals.
Mobley just had a breakout season, but he’s looking to get even better in 2025-26.
Recent videos have shown him working on his offensive game, and he has publicly said he’d love to be MVP within the next few seasons.
He is proud of what he just accomplished, but he intends to develop and grow.
Does that mean he will climb higher in Perkins’ ranking next season?
He’s already Defensive Player of the Year, but Mobley can improve even more.
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