Boston Celtics: Individual player awards a month into the season

By Seth Quinn | Nov 16, 2021

MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 04: Jaylen Brown #7 of the Boston Celtics reacts against the Miami Heat at FTX Arena on November 04, 2021 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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Boston Celtics Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports /

Boston Celtics DPOY- Al Horford

Al Horford has been a revelation on defense this season, making him an easy choice for me for Defensive Player of the Year so far.

He is currently leading the team in defensive rating (he’s technically behind Juan Hernangomez, who has only played 19 minutes so far this season) and currently sits second in the NBA in blocks per game with 2.3.

Along with the blocked shots, Horford is clearly the vocal leader of the team, and can also do a decent job defending the perimeter for a big man in the C’s switch heavy defense.

While Rob Williams is also averaging two blocks a game, Horford is the better all-around defender and the leader of the defense, which is why I’ve chosen him for this award.

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