Most people. The ringer has defense being one of his strengths. Most sites consider him a wing with good defensive IQ, quick hands, and size to switch.Where are you seeing he’s rated as a great defender anywhere? Serious question.
I’ve watched a lot of him recently to understand how people are comping him to some legends and while he has the tools he’s far from a “great” defender. I’ve also never seen anyone call him that who I respect.
From The Ringer "
- Good team defender who plays hard, rotates, and has the frame to comfortably switch screens.
- Outstanding rebounder for his position. Consistently crashes offensive glass and will board out of his area on defense.
- Disciplined defender who rarely sells himself out. Knows where to be off the ball and doesn’t get caught ball-watching.
- Long and strong frame gives him defensive versatility. 6-foot-11 wingspan, 8-foot-9 standing reach, 210 pounds. Can reliably check 2-4 and holds his own against slower 1s.
- High-motor player who finds a way to make an impact even when his shot isn’t falling. Fights through screens, crashes the glass, plays the passing lanes.