Tyson Chandler Earns 2012 Defensive Player of the Year Honors
The New York Knicks may be in the midst of a tumultuous season, but star Tyson Chandler has been nothing but sound on the defensive end, taking home the season's title of Defensive Player of the Year.
Update: Wednesday, May 2 at 3:30 p.m. ET
It's now official. Chandler has been named Defensive Player of the Year. The NBA made the announcement on the league's official Twitter account, confirming the reports from yesterday about the Knicks center taking home the hardware.
"Tyson Chandler of the @NYKnicks named 2011-12 KIA NBA Defensive Player of the Year.twitpic.com/9gh8cx
— NBA (@NBA) May 2, 2012"
Chandler had a terrific season on the defensive end to help a previously weak Knicks defense. His efforts haven't been enough to help New York control the dynamic Miami Heat offense, but he can't do everything alone.
UPDATE: Tuesday, May 1 at 11:12 a.m. EST
Tyson Chandler is expected to be named 2012 Defensive Player of the Year at a press conference today at 3 p.m. EST, according to HoopsWorld.com's Alex Kennedy.
"Tyson Chandler will be named the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year today at 3 p.m. Congrats to @tysonchandler, he was phenomenal this year.
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) May 2, 2012"
Yahoo Sports' Marc J. Spears first reported via Twitter that Chandler will receive the award, some welcome news in an otherwise up-and-down year:
"Knicks center Tyson Chandler to be named NBA Defensive Player of the Year tomorrow at team practice facility, source tells @YahooSports.
— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) May 2, 2012"
It's been a long time coming for a player who is renowned for his defensive measures. In fact, it's his presence in the paint that is cited as the big reason the Dallas Mavericks edged out the Miami Heat for the title last season.
Chandler earned All-Defensive Second Team honors last season, but he can now hold sway as the best defender in the Association.
Chandlers's averages are up across the board, logging 9.9 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and .9 steals per game—not that you can quantify what Chandler lends the Knicks in paint presence.
Under Mike D'Antoni, the Knicks were hardly known for their ability to guard the low block and invoke a strong physical presence, but that has all changed with Chandler.
There was no question that Chandler would one day take home this top defensive prize, and the manner in which he has improved the Knicks' interior is exactly what makes this award deserving.
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