Last season, San Antonio Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama led the NBA in blocks with 3.6 swats per game. Second place went to Utah Jazz big man Walker Kessler who rejected 2.4 shots per contest. Brook Lopez (2.4 bpg), Anthony Davis (2.3 bpg) and Chet Holmgren (2.3 bpg) rounded out the top five.
With the 2024-25 season opening on Tuesday, basketball fans are interested to see if the same players will rule the block party. Offense sells the tickets, but defense remains a key ingredient in winning games. The best shot blockers in the NBA will have their share of the limelight once the new season starts
5 players who could lead the league in blocks in 2024-25 NBA season
#5. Rudy Gobert
Rudy Gobert ranked in the top five in six of his 11 NBA seasons. He finished sixth last season with an average of 2.1 bpg. The Minnesota Timberwolves might need him to be more of a shot-blocker when the next season opens.
Chris Finch could start Julius Randle after Karl-Anthony Towns was traded to the New York Knicks. With less size in the paint, the “Stifle Tower” has to be more assertive in patrolling the shaded lane. He could return to the top five in blocks next season.
#4. Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis was healthy last season and his presence on the defensive end was undeniable for the LA Lakers. AD’s importance on that end will again be crucial as he continues to play center under new coach JJ Redick. Davis will have some help in the frontcourt, and if he is healthy, he has a good chance of retaining his top five spot in blocks next season.
#3 Walker Kessler
Walker Kessler doesn’t suffocate opponents with his athleticism, he does it with excellent positioning, timing and anticipation. The Utah Jazz will continue to rely on him to clog the interior and keep opponents from scoring easy baskets in the paint. Kessler is poised to have another top five finish in blocked shots next season.
#2. Chet Holmgren
Chet Holmgren often made opponents shake their heads in disbelief whenever they tried to attempt a shot last season. Holmgren’s 7-foot-6 wingspan and mobility made him an excellent shot-blocker. After his first full season in the NBA with the Oklahoma City Thunder, many expect him to be even better at rejecting shots.
With Isaiah Hartenstein playing center, Holmgren will have more opportunities to provide help defense. The lanky forward’s shot-blocking average could improve next season.
#1. Victor Wembanyama
Who else could it be? As scary as Holmgren was around the basket, Victor Wembanyama was on a different planet. The Frenchman could have had an even more impressive shot-blocking average if opponents weren’t terrified to drive against him. “Wemby” might not top this list if opposing teams refuse to challenge him on defense.
