Cleveland Cavaliers center Evan Mobley has won the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year for the 2022-2023 season, becoming the youngest winner in league history. This wonderful honor makes him the first player from the Cleveland Cavaliers to win this highly regarded accolade. Mobley’s exemplary performance helped the Cavaliers secure the top position in the Eastern Conference, leading them wire-to-wire throughout the season.
Mobley further solidified his growing reputation this season as one of the best defenders in the game. He put up 18.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game. His elite defensive talent, especially as a helter defender, was key to the Cavaliers championship run.
Mobley received 285 total points in the voting. He lead the field with 35 first-place votes, 30 second-place votes, and 20 third-place votes. As of 2021, he had made it onto 85 of those 100 ballots. This further cements his status as the leading candidate for the award in what has been a loaded field.
With so many candidates having strong cases, this season’s race for Defensive Player of the Year feels more open than ever. The field suddenly became more competitive when Victor Wembanyama was eliminated as a potential candidate. Mobley beat out other finalists Dyson Daniels and Draymond Green. His stellar play lifted the Cavaliers out of the league cellar and into playoff contention.
Along with his solidifying recognition as a top-tier defender, Mobley’s all-around play has placed him in position for an almost-certain All-NBA selection. His breakout campaign has led to a 3-year, $30M contract extension. Mobley’s maximal rookie contract will jump by about $45 million over the next five years, bringing it to a stunning five-year maximum deal of $269 million.
Mobley said it was a thrill to win the award, and added that, “It feels fantastic.” He emphasized the importance of hard work in achieving this milestone, remarking, “I mean, it definitely was a goal of mine coming into this year. I put all the work in, so it’s a big day.”
Mobley is clearly and actively sharpening his craft. He could be a key factor of the Cavaliers’ hope to be in the hunt for another championship. His contributions are reminiscent of the team’s previous successes during LeBron James’ tenure when they reached four consecutive NBA Finals from 2015 to 2018.
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