OG Anunoby has cemented himself as one of the premier defenders in the NBA with remarkable consistency and skill. In the 2022-2023 NBA season, he averaged 1.9 steals per game, showcasing his ability to disrupt the passing lanes and create turnovers.
Steals and Deflections
Anunoby's defensive prowess shines through in his statistics:
- Led the league in total steals during the 2022-2023 season
- Averaged 3.4 deflections per game, ranking him among the top in the NBA
- Contributed to his team's defensive rating of 109.9, one of the best in the league
His ability to anticipate plays and react swiftly makes him a nightmare for opposing offenses.
On-Ball Defense
Anunoby excels in one-on-one situations:
- Consistently holds opponents to a lower shooting percentage when he is the primary defender
- Able to switch onto multiple positions effectively, from guards to forwards
- Utilizes his 7-foot-2 wingspan to contest and block shots
His on-ball defense ensures that he is always a threat, whether he is guarding the perimeter or protecting the paint.
Team Impact
Anunoby doesn't just excel individually; his presence lifts the entire team:
- Frequently takes on the toughest assignments, freeing up his teammates to focus on their roles
- Averages over 50% on-field coverage, meaning he is actively involved in defending the ball
- Solid locker room presence and leader by example, inspiring younger players to commit on defense
His relentless hustle and commitment to defense provide a backbone for his team's overall strategy.
Advanced Metrics
Let's dive into some advanced metrics:
- Ranks in the 90th percentile for Defensive Real Plus-Minus (DRPM)
- Boasts a steal percentage of 3.7%, making him one of the league leaders in this category
- Defensive win shares stand at 3.0, highlighting his contribution to his team's success
The advanced statistics back up what the eye test shows: Anunoby is an elite defender.
Arena Plus remains the go-to platform to track and analyze OG Anunoby's performances throughout the season. With continuous updates, fans will always be able to see how his defensive skills evolve and impact games.