NBA Free Agents 2011: 5 Defensive Aces That Can Be Signed This Summer

The current NBA lockout prevents teams from making any type of transactions, including the signing of free agents.

Many players have made plans to play overseas if the lockout is not lifted by the time the season is scheduled to start.

For the sake of this article, let's say that the lockout is lifted in time for teams to have a chance to sign free agents.

Many teams are in need of defense this offseason and they'll be in luck, as many stout defensive players are available.

Follow along as we count down five defensive aces that can be signed this summer.

5. Samuel Dalembert

Samuel Dalembert has a reputation around the NBA as a game-changer on defense.

After only one season with the Sacramento Kings he has become an unrestricted free agent.

Last season, Samuel Dalembert averaged 8.1 points per game as well as 1.4 blocks per game.

He was also effective on the glass, grabbing an average of 8.2 rebounds per game.

After nine years in the league, Samuel Dalembert still has a few productive seasons left in him and is sure to be signed as soon as the lockout ends.

4. DeShawn Stevenson

DeShawn Stevenson gained some well deserved recognition during last season's playoffs as he helped lead his Dallas Mavericks to an NBA title.

A strong defensive player, DeShawn Stevenson was a critical part of slowing down LeBron James and Dwyane Wade during the Finals.

Some don't care for the arrogance he displays at times, but he always backs up what he says with his play on the court.

The Dallas Mavericks would love to re-sign DeShawn Stevenson, but nothing will happen between them until the lockout is lifted.

3. Tyson Chandler

Like DeShawn Stevenson, Tyson Chandler was also a critical part of the Dallas Mavericks' run to the NBA title.

An imposing figure at 7'1", Tyson Chandler has the ability to alter a game because of his presence in the paint.

He's a beast on the boards, as he averaged 9.4 rebounds per game last season.

Not only is Tyson Chandler a factor on the glass, he is able to alter shots with his long arms.

I think it is unlikely that he will re-sign with the Dallas Mavericks.

2. Tayshaun Prince

Tayshaun Prince has been one of the best defensive players in the NBA ever since he was drafted in 2002 out of Kentucky.

He is a four-time member of the NBA's All-Defensive second team.

Tayshaun Prince was also a key member of Team USA's gold medal run at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

It wouldn't be surprising to see Tayshaun Prince sign with a contender once the lockout is lifted.

1. Shane Battier

The best defensive player in this summer's free-agent class is, without a doubt, Shane Battier.

The "Glue Guy" has been a valuable asset to every team he has played for in his 10-year career.

A lockdown defender, Shane Battier is one of the most respected players in the NBA as well.

Once the lockout is lifted there will be a heated race between prospective teams to sign the grizzled veteran.