Analysts rank NBA players capable of defending all five positions

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 8:31 PM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Analysts rank NBA players capable of defending all five positions
Summary

NBA analysts have identified a group of elite players capable of guarding all five positions on the court. The criteria for this selection prioritize players who possess the specific size, speed, and strength required to transition across different defensive assignments. Draymond Green, LeBron James, and Dennis Rodman lead the list of players recognized for their positionless defensive capability. Other players highlighted for their defensive versatility include Ben Simmons, Kawhi Leonard, and Hakeem Olajuwon. While Hakeem Olajuwon was primarily a rim protector, his movement and hand speed allowed him to defend far from the basket. Kawhi Leonard and Ben Simmons also earned recognition for their ability to switch onto various roles despite their primary perimeter duties.

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By the Numbers
  • Draymond Green and LeBron James appear at the top of the defensive ranking.
  • Ben Simmons earned two All-Defensive First Team selections while playing for Philadelphia.
  • Kawhi Leonard won back-to-back Defensive Player of the Year awards in 2015 and 2016.
  • Hakeem Olajuwon remains the only player to win MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Finals MVP in a single season.
Latest Updates
  • 8:31 PMYahoo SportsRanking The Greatest NBA Players Who Could Guard All Five Positions
What they're saying
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Here are the greatest NBA players who could truly guard all five positions, led by Draymond Green, LeBron James, and Dennis Rodman.

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