When I think about the NBA's most electrifying blocking duos, it's hard not to get excited about the sheer defensive prowess these pairings bring to the table. One prime example is the duo of Tim Duncan and David Robinson. Between the two, they amassed an incredible 5,001 blocks over the course of their careers, turning the San Antonio Spurs into a defensive juggernaut during the late '90s and early 2000s. I remember watching them swat shots left and right, making life miserable for the opposition. Their size and skill set were just phenomenal, and their impact on the game was undeniable.
Thinking about more recent times, the combination of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins during their stint with the New Orleans Pelicans was formidable. Although their time together was brief, the duo averaged an impressive 3.5 blocks per game when paired on the court. Davis, with his 7'6" wingspan, caused headaches for offensive players, while Cousins, despite being more known for his offensive game, held his ground defensively. That one year where they played together showcased a potential that left many fans wondering "What if?"
And how could we forget the current sensation of Rudy Gobert and Karl-Anthony Towns? Gobert, known as "The Stifle Tower," has been a dominant force in blocking for years, amassing over 1,300 blocks by the age of 30. Pairing him with Towns, who himself has demonstrated defensive capabilities, creates a duo that's both formidable and feared. The Timberwolves saw their opponent's field goal percentage drop significantly in games where both Gobert and Towns were on the court. This duo's ability to change the course of a game with their defensive presence is truly something special.
Looking back, one of my favorite classic duos was Hakeem Olajuwon and Ralph Sampson of the Houston Rockets. They were pretty much a nightmare for any team driving the lane in the mid-80s. Combined, they had seasons where they averaged nearly 5 blocks per game, with Olajuwon himself sometimes recording as many as 4 blocks single-handedly. Their "Twin Towers" nickname was no exaggeration, for they were fierce protectors of the rim.
When DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin played together for the Clippers, their blocking stats were somewhat overshadowed by their explosive offensive highlights. However, let's not forget that Jordan averaged over 2 blocks per game in multiple seasons, with Griffin contributing as well. Those Lob City days were fun to watch—it wasn't just about dunks but a broader spectrum of athletic prowess.
Shifting to a different era, Dikembe Mutombo and Theo Ratliff formed a brief yet powerful combo with the Atlanta Hawks. Both were known for their shot-blocking abilities, and when they teamed up, they created one of the most impenetrable defenses in the league. In just one season, they combined for nearly 5 blocks per game. Mutombo's finger-wagging celebration after each block became iconic, and Ratliff's strength complemented him perfectly.
Of course, modern fans might be more familiar with the combination of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez in Milwaukee. Giannis, the “Greek Freak,” combined with Lopez, who had revitalized his career with improved defensive play, turned the Bucks into a formidable defensive team. Together, they affected shooting percentages and altered game strategies of their opponents. Giannis alone already has over 800 career blocks at a young age, and Lopez surpassed 1,500 blocks in his career. Their partnership reshaped how teams approached scoring in the paint.
One underrated duo that I feel doesn't get enough recognition is Alonzo Mourning and P.J. Brown with the Miami Heat. Mourning was a beast, known for his 3.9 blocks per game in the 1998-99 season. Pairing with Brown, who provided a steady defensive presence and additional shot-blocking, made the Heat a tough team to face in the late '90s and early 2000s. Their synergy was something special and played a crucial part in Miami's defensive schemes.
The synergy between blocking duos often redefines a team's defensive dynamics. Think of Ben Wallace and Rasheed Wallace with the Detroit Pistons. They were the backbone of one of the most defensive-minded NBA teams ever. The 2003-2004 season saw them combine for over 4 blocks per game, leading their team to an NBA Championship. Big Ben's raw power and Rasheed's versatility made them a defensive pair that could handle almost any opponent thrown their way.
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Lastly, think about the young duo of Jaren Jackson Jr. and Steven Adams with the Memphis Grizzlies. Jackson, leading the league with almost 3 blocks per game in recent seasons, teamed up with Adams, who brings not just shot-blocking but incredible defensive IQ, makes for a future powerhouse in the making. Their potential to control the paint and deter high-percentage shots offers an exciting look at what’s to come for Memphis.
