When you think about NBA’s best blocking trios of the 21st century, you can’t avoid mentioning the 2003-2004 Detroit Pistons. Ben Wallace, Rasheed Wallace, and Tayshaun Prince formed an exceptional defensive front. Ben Wallace averaged 3.0 blocks per game, Rasheed Wallace added another 2.1, and Tayshaun Prince also made significant contributions with 1.2 blocks per game. In total, they averaged over 6 blocks per game, which had a tremendous impact on their games. They were an integral part of the Pistons’ success that season, ultimately leading to their NBA Championship win.
Another remarkable trio to consider would be the 2011-2012 Oklahoma City Thunder. Serge Ibaka often called the “blocking machine,” led the league with 3.7 blocks per game. Kendrick Perkins was not far behind, adding about 1.1 blocks per game to the team’s stats. Kevin Durant chipped in with an average of 1.2 blocks per game. Combining all these figures, the trio managed to edge over 6 blocks per game that season. Their defensive prowess was unmistakable, contributing significantly to the Thunder reaching the NBA Finals, only to fall short against the Miami Heat.
Moving on to more recent times, the 2018-2019 Milwaukee Bucks featured Brook Lopez, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Ersan Ilyasova. Brook Lopez averaged 2.2 blocks per game, Giannis was right behind with 1.5, and Ilyasova added another 0.7. This totaled to approximately 4.4 blocks per game for the trio. While their overall numbers might not seem as prolific as the earlier examples, their timing and defensive contributions were pivotal. There’s no denying the significant role they played in leading the Bucks to have the best regular-season record that year.
Who can forget the 2019-2020 Los Angeles Lakers? Anthony Davis was a monster on the defensive end, averaging an impressive 2.3 blocks per game. JaVale McGee added another 1.4 blocks per game, and Dwight Howard chipped in with 1.1 blocks per game. Together, they averaged nearly 5 blocks per game. This formidable frontcourt defense was a driving factor for their championship victory in the NBA bubble. Anecdotally, many players and analysts alike acknowledged the Lakers' blocking ability as a game-changer.
Interestingly, defense isn’t just about blocks; it’s also about altering shots and creating psychological pressure. The 2007-2008 Boston Celtics exemplified this concept. Kevin Garnett was the centerpiece with 1.3 blocks per game, but combined with Paul Pierce’s contributions of 0.6 blocks and Kendrick Perkins' 1.5, their versatility was crucial. The trio averaged about 3.4 blocks per game. However, it was their defensive strategy and communication that set them apart. Winning the championship validated their approach, as their defense was consistently a notch above their competitors.
Comparatively, the modern three-point-heavy game could diminish the spectacular blocking performances of yesteryears. That said, analytics reveal that Russell Westbrook, alongside Steven Adams and Paul George during the 2018-2019 season, could hold their ground. Westbrook averaged 0.5 blocks per game, Adams added 1.0, and George led with 0.8. Their combined 2.3 blocks might not sound extraordinary, but considering the evolution of offensive strategies, it's pretty impressive. Their contribution helped the Oklahoma City Thunder rank among the top defensive teams in the league during that period.
Reflecting on the earlier years of the 21st century, the 2000-2001 San Antonio Spurs deserve mention. David Robinson's tail-end career averaged 2.5 blocks per game, Tim Duncan scored 2.3, and Malik Rose added 1.0. Their combined efforts of 5.8 blocks per game created a defensive wall. The Spurs cemented their defensive legacy, although they eventually fell short in the playoffs. Yet their shot-blocking ability has remained etched in basketball history.
To bring all mentioned trios into perspective, it becomes evident that elite shot-blocking isn’t just about raw numbers. The synergy between players, their defensive awareness, and their strategic deployment play crucial roles. Exceptional triads have consistently shown that blocking shots is more than just an individual feat; it’s a coordinated effort that contributes to the team’s overall defense and success.
There may be a debate on the ultimate best blocking trio, but what stands out are the defining moments and the championship runs these players contributed to. Their influence, backed by numbers, showcases how integral shot-blocking is to winning games and, ultimately, championships. For more details on such fascinating sports insights, you can visit arena plus.