When I think about the best defensive plays in the NBA Finals, the first moment that springs to my mind is LeBron James' legendary block on Andre Iguodala in Game 7 of the 2016 Finals. That single play had a significant impact on the game and is often touted as one of the greatest defensive efforts in Finals history. James sprinted down the court at an astounding speed of approximately 20 miles per hour, timing his leap perfectly to block Iguodala's layup attempt. This play was so critical because it kept the game tied at 89 and preserved the Cavaliers' chances of clinching the championship.
Another defensive masterpiece was Kawhi Leonard's series against the Miami Heat in 2014. Leonard's performance earned him the Finals MVP, thanks largely to his defensive prowess against LeBron James. Kawhi was just 22 years old at the time, using his superior wingspan of 7’3” and quick footwork to restrict LeBron’s scoring opportunities. His steals, blocks, and contested shots were pivotal in holding LeBron to 57% shooting from the field, which is remarkable considering LeBron's career average is closer to 50%. Leonard's tenacity on defense, combined with his scoring efficiency, played a crucial role in the Spurs winning the title that year.
Historic plays like these are why the NBA Finals are so riveting. Take the case of Hakeem Olajuwon's clutch block against John Starks in the 1994 Finals. With just 7.6 seconds left in Game 6, Olajuwon, known for his exceptional shot-blocking ability, managed to tip Starks' three-point attempt, ensuring the Rockets' victory and forcing a Game 7. Olajuwon's reaction time and vertical leap, measured at 37 inches, were instrumental in this decisive play. This iconic moment highlighted Olajuwon's overall impact, as he averaged 3.9 blocks per game during the 1994 playoff run.
Going back a bit further, one can't forget Dennis Rodman’s defensive play in the 1996 Finals. Rodman, known as "The Worm," was a defensive maestro who excelled at disrupting opponents' offensive schemes. In the pivotal Game 2 against the Seattle SuperSonics, Rodman grabbed 20 rebounds, with 11 of them on the offensive end. His relentless pursuit of the ball and ability to read the game ensured the Bulls maintained possession and control, ultimately contributing to their 87-75 win. His defensive effectiveness wasn't just about numbers; it was also about positioning and anticipation, skills that are harder to quantify but no less impactful.
Another unforgettable mention is Manu Ginobili's block on James Harden in the 2017 Western Conference Semifinals, which propelled the Spurs to the Finals. Although not in the Finals itself, this play is often referenced for its sheer audacity and critical timing. With 2.7 seconds left in overtime, Ginobili blocked Harden’s three-point attempt, securing a win for the Spurs. This moment underscored Ginobili's defensive instincts and willingness to take risks, embodying the high-stakes drama that characterizes playoff basketball.
Tony Allen's work in the 2010 Finals also deserves recognition. Known for his "First Team All-Defense" moniker, Allen was a nightmare for the Lakers' offense. His ability to shut down Kobe Bryant was a game-changer. Although Kobe still managed to put up 28.6 points per game, Allen's physical defense made him work for every point, limiting his shooting percentage to 40.5%. Allen's pressure forced the Lakers to find alternative scoring options, proving how one player’s defensive skills can ripple through an entire team's strategy.
Draymond Green’s versatility on the defensive end was vital for the Golden State Warriors during their championship runs. In the 2015 Finals against the Cavaliers, Green's ability to switch onto different positions allowed the Warriors to deploy their infamous "Death Lineup." Green, standing at 6'6" but with the agility and basketball IQ to guard all five positions, disrupted Cleveland’s offense and provided the Warriors with a significant edge. His 2.2 steals and 1.2 blocks per game in the Finals were just part of his overall defensive impact.
Similarly, Giannis Antetokounmpo's block on Deandre Ayton in the 2021 Finals was another series-defining moment. With the Bucks leading the series 3-2, Giannis’s block with 1:14 remaining in Game 5 helped Milwaukee maintain their lead and eventually win the game. Giannis's freakish athleticism and 7'3" wingspan allowed him to cover an immense amount of ground and deny Ayton at the rim, highlighting why he was the Defensive Player of the Year in 2020.
arena plus has a detailed analysis of many such plays. When you look at defensive plays in the Finals, it's not just about the block or the steal; it's about the context, the timing, and the stakes. These moments are seared into NBA history, not just for their athletic brilliance but also for their impact on the outcome of championships.