NBA Free Agents 2011: 5 Best Defensive Stalwarts on the Market

These free agents should already be signed and practicing with their respective teams. However, the NBA season is in jeopardy. The lockout is still in effect and players and coaches don’t seem to be getting any closer on an agreement. The preseason has already been lost, and regular-season games are almost guaranteed to be shaved off the schedule.

If this season is salvaged, expect a wild free-agency period similar to what we saw when the NFL lockout was lifted. Players would be faced with important decisions and very little time to think them over.

If every NBA fan’s hopes do come to fruition, these five guys are the best defensive players on the market.

5. Grant Hill, Small Forward

There’s no question that his age has his game on the decline, but Grant Hill remains one of the best defenders on the market. At 38 years old, he can probably be had at excellent value.

If he comes off the bench and is reserved for key defensive situations, he’ll remain extremely effective. He stays in great shape and has a great work ethic, but his health is often a concern. By playing off the bench, he can come in and shut down reputable scorers when the game is on the line. A truly valuable commodity.

4. Nene Hilario, Center

At 6’11” and 250 pounds, Nene is one of the few true centers left in the NBA. He averaged a block and a steal per game and had a career-high 5.7 defensive rebounds per game in 2010-2011. In spite of being light for his position, his athleticism allows him to contend with any center in the league.

Nene’s defensive rebound numbers have increased in each of his past five full seasons. If he can start playing with his back to the rim more, his upside is tremendous.

3. Tayshaun Prince, Small Forward

Tayshaun Prince’s length makes him a pest for any offensive opponent. He’s an unrestricted free agent heading into next season, and even though the Pistons would love to have him back, a lot of other teams will be reaching out.

The gold medalist and two-time second-team All-Defense selection can still get it done against All-Star-caliber players. He’ll regularly cover guys like LeBron James, Paul Pierce and Kevin Durant.

2. Shane Battier, Small Forward

Widely regarded as one of the smartest players in the league, Shane Battier is also the best defensive forward on the market. What he lacks in athleticism he makes up for in effort and extensive film study and practice between games.

There has already been talk of the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls pursuing Battier, and for good reason. He can cover the best scorers in the league and stays glued to even the fastest two guards. Whoever can court him will not only be adding a brilliant defender, but also an excellent team player with a ridiculously high basketball IQ.

1. Tyson Chandler, Center

In 2010 Tyson Chandler was named to the second-team All-Defense in 2011 and finished third overall in voting for defensive player of the year. Anyone who watched the NBA Playoffs knows exactly what Chandler can bring to the table.

He is a leader on the defensive side of the ball and takes away the post game from almost any opponent. Dallas will do all it can to keep him around. Outside of Dirk Nowitzki, he was the heart and soul of that championship team.