Top 10 Perimeter Defenders in the NBA

We often get caught up in the flashy plays and bright lights of the NBA. 

What often times goes unnoticed are the key defensive players in the league.

There may be some names on the list that surprise you and this list is in no particular order.

But it's about time these players get some recognition for the hard work they put in on the defensive end.

Thabo Sefolosha

Many people wonder why Sefolosha continues to start over James Harden in Oklahoma. 

I am one of those people.

However, I can understand why this decision stands. 

Sefolosha is one of the premier defenders in the league and always has the toughest matchup every night.

He makes it so Kevin Durant and Russel Westbrook can focus their energy on the offensive end rather than trying to guard players like Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James. 

His 6'7" frame makes him a solid defensive specimen and someone players would rather not see in their face all night.

Gerald Wallace

Gerald Wallace, aka Crash.

He is fearless on both ends of the floor and is crazy athletic.

This in turn, translates into a great defender who will meet you in the air and beat you in a foot race.

Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade's defense is overlooked, being that he is one of the best offensive players in the league.

However, watch him on defense and you will realize how great of a defender he really is.

He is arguably one of, if not the best shot-blocking shooting guards to ever play the game and is a sneaky player, always lurking for a steal.

Although he is only 6'4" he does well guarding bigger guards because of his athleticism and is a big reason the Heat are the top defensive team in the league.

LeBron James

Here's another reason the Heat sit at the top of the league.

Sitting on the other wing is a 6'8" monster with the speed of a point guard and the power of a center.

LeBron is a very versatile player who can score, rebound, assist, you name it.

But he is also one of the best defenders in the league, thanks in part to all his physical gifts.

He can guard some of the most athletic guards in the league today such as Derrick Rose and Russel Westbrook, and then switch it up and move over on a power forward.

DeShawn Stevenson

DeShawn Stevenson played a key role in the Mavericks championship run last year.

Known for his personal feud with LeBron since his Wizard days, Stevenson admittedly does play some of the best defense in the league.

He can be a streaky shooter, but the main reason he sees the floor is because of the defensive intensity he brings.

His never-back-down attitude has gotten him into some battles throughout his career.

Now he is in New Jersey and looking forward to matching up with LeBron on Saturday.

Rajon Rondo

Rajon Rondo is the best defensive point guard in the league.

He is far from the biggest or most athletic players on the floor, but he is smart.

I'm sure many of you out there have the visual in your head of Rondo guarding LeBron James in the post (I don't think that could happen anymore).

He is not afraid to be aggressive and his anticipation skills are amazing, resulting in a lot of steals.

Andre Iguodala

Andre Iguodala is known for his amazing dunks.

The truth of the matter is, he is another overlooked defender in the league.

He has said on multiple occasions that he likes to play defense and that is apparent.

Now if he could only polish his offensive game the 76ers would be much better off.

Ronnie Brewer

Some believe Ronnie Brewer got snubbed in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season (let's be honest, nobody is beating Dwight Howard for a while).

Brewer is somewhat of a defensive specialist who clearly takes pride in defending his opponent to the best of his abilities day in and day out.

Tony Allen

Tony Allen averaged over four steals per game last season.

Now of course steals alone do not constitute a good defender. 

Tony Allen was named to the NBA All-Defensive second team last year and I'm sure he's keeping up the good work this year.

It is clear he is no stranger to watching tape on his opponents; a true student of the game.

Derrick Rose

You may think Derrick Rose doesn't belong on this list, but the reigning MVP plays defense too.

Last year he came out and voiced his new commitment to defense and it's clear that it's paid off for the Bulls.

He has a 6'8" wingspan and when he locks in on the offensive player one-on-one, to say it's tough to get loose is an understatement.