Bam Adebayo remains among NBA defensive leaders without DPOY award

Bam Adebayo enters the upcoming NBA season seeking his first Defensive Player of the Year award after earning his sixth All-Defensive Team selection in 2026. Despite consistent recognition for his versatility in switching and rim protection, the Miami Heat forward has finished no higher than third in league voting. He joins a historical group of elite defenders, including Tony Allen and Jrue Holiday, who accumulated multiple All-Defensive honors without claiming the top individual defensive prize. The Heat look to leverage a new frontcourt pairing of Adebayo and recent acquisition Giannis Antetokounmpo to elevate their defensive presence. Adebayo, turning 29 before the season starts, continues to anchor a Miami defense that relies on his ability to guard across multiple positions.

• 6:27 PMYahoo Sports — NBA Stars With The Most All-Defensive Team Selections And No DPOY Award In History: Is It Bam Adebayo’s Time?