LeBron James and the 5 Best Wing Defenders in the NBA

Offense wins games, but it's all about getting stops in crunch time.

With a league dominated by offensive perimeter players, there are still a few who can make an impact defensively.

Whether it is great on-ball defense, blocked shots or steals, it all makes a difference.

Here is a list of the best wing defenders in the NBA.

5) Luol Deng

Luol Deng has been a staple of the great Chicago Bulls' defense the past few seasons.

He stands at 6'9" which gives him great length and size advantages for his position.

Deng is often called upon to guard the likes of LeBron James and Paul Pierce in the East.

He has done a consistent job on the defensive end and rarely gets any credit for it.

4) Tony Allen

Very few players have the defensive skills of the Memphis Grizzlies' Tony Allen.

He has been considered one of the NBA's best defenders for the last four years. It started in Boston when Allen's defensive play was put on display in the Celtic's "Big 3" era.

Ever since, Tony Allen has continued to guard many positions and constantly stand out as an elite defender.

3) Shawn Marion

I have to agree with Mark Cuban—Mavericks forward Shawn Marion is extremely underrated on the defensive end.

Marion is the best defender on his team now that Tyson Chandler has departed.

Marion will be a factor when Dirk returns and the Mavs make a playoff push. He does such a great job in playoff series and will limit the other team's stars to difficult shots.

2) Andre Iguodala

Denver Nuggets star Andre Iguodala has become a great wing defender. He's the most athletic person on this list other than the top selection.

Iguodala too is given the nightly task to guard the opposing team's best wing player.

Andre seemed to pick up a lot from playing for Team USA this past summer, and is still improving.

1) LeBron James

Miami Heat superstar LeBron James gets the nod on this list because wing players just simply can't succeed against his over-sized frame.

James expends a lot of energy getting his shots on the offensive end, yet can muster up strength to defend like no one else.

Often, the ball won't even hit the hands of the player James is guarding. On the wing he can intercept passes and also keep opposing players out of the paint.

In the 4th quarter of crucial games we often see James take out the other team's perimeter options and lead his team to victory.

Thanks for reading.

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