LeBron shares why he is still mad about not winning DPOY - 'The guy who won the DPOY didn't even make first team all defense'

LBJ’s 2013 campaign is often remembered for his historic efficiency on offense, but his defensive impact was just as noteworthy. Anchoring a Miami Heat team that finished second in defensive rating that season, he was tasked with guarding every position on the floor. His versatility allowed Miami’s defense to flourish, whether shutting down speedy guards or contesting shots against big men.

Statistically, James was at his peak defensively. He averaged 1.7 steals and 0.9 blocks per game while playing 76 games in the regular season. He also posted a career-high defensive win share of 6.7, highlighting his ability to swing games with his defense. However, the Memphis Grizzlies center claimed the title when the votes were tallied. What made this result controversial was the peculiar voting dynamic.

“That’s the only award that I don’t have in my house that kind of stings,” LeBron said. “Like it doesn't make any sense; it doesn't make sense... The year I finished second in the Defensive Player of the Year Award, the guy who won Defensive Player of the Year didn’t even make First Team All-Defense.”

Gasol’s win was attributed mainly to his role in Memphis’s league-best defense that season, which revolved around his ability to protect the rim. Yet, the argument remains that James’s versatility, allowing him to guard multiple positions effectively, made him more deserving.

One blemish

For many, the lack of a DPOY on LeBron’s resumé tilts comparisons with other all-time greats, particularly Michael Jordan. Widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in history, Jordan’s nine All-Defensive First Team appearances and three steals titles set him apart.

MJ’s defensive dominance was especially evident during the 1987-88 season when he averaged 3.2 steals and 1.6 blocks per game—mind-boggling numbers for a guard. That year, Jordan became the first player to win the DPOY and MVP in the same season, solidifying his two-way dominance.

On the other hand, King James has been on the brink of such achievements multiple times. Beyond the DPOY snub, another notable disappointment came in 2013, when he narrowly missed out on creating NBA history. James secured 120 of 121 first-place votes for MVP, with one voter choosing Carmelo Anthony instead. The omission was another reminder that even the best careers have moments of “what if?”

LeBron’s defensive legacy is still celebrated, but the absence of that elusive DPOY award remains a lingering question. In the eyes of some, his career achievements are just short of perfection.