When Memphis Grizzlies center Marc Gasol was named Defensive Player of the Year, it was met by some surprise and skepticism from fans and players alike. Lakers center Dwight Howard let it be known that he found it funny and now we find out that the second place winner wasn’t happy either.
LeBron James is on his way to his fourth MVP award and his Miami Heat are the favorite to win back-to-back NBA Championships. But per The Palm Beach Post, LeBron was upset about not winning this particular award. And let it be known.
Memphis center Marc Gasol won the Defensive Player of the Year, finishing 14 first place votes ahead of LeBron James, with Serge Ibaka third.
During his first media availability since the announcement, James made his feelings clear.
“It sucks,” James said. “It sucks. It sucks.”
James was asked if his candidacy for other awards — notably the MVP — hurt his chances.
“I don’t know,” James said. “It definitely sucks, though. Finishing second? Who wants to finish second?”
Was this his best defensive season?
“Probably,” James said. “I mean, I guard everybody on the floor. I don’t know if there’s one player in NBA history who’s guarded one through five (positions). It’s over with now, but that’s cool.”
For what it is worth, I think that LeBron has a point.
I’ve thought long and hard about it but I’m not sure there has ever been another player in NBA history who can check all 5 positions from point guard to center like LeBron. Was he robbed of this award? Maybe. But I think we all know LeBron is the best defender in the NBA.
And in my eyes, that is worth more than any award can signify.