Rim protection is a crucial aspect of defense in basketball, and these players have mastered the art of protecting the paint. They have consistently been at the top of the league in blocks, showcasing their ability to alter shots and deter opponents from driving to the basket. Let's take a look at some of the most dominant shot blockers in NBA history who have led the league in blocks in multiple seasons.
1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bucks and Lakers
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, one of the most accomplished players in NBA history, led the league in blocks four times. He first did so in 1975 with the Milwaukee Bucks, then in 1976, 1979 and 1980 with the Los Angeles Lakers. Known primarily for his scoring and the skyhook, Abdul-Jabbar was also a formidable defender, using his size and timing to protect the rim throughout his career.
2. Marcus Camby, Raptors and Nuggets
Marcus Camby led the NBA in blocks four times across his career. His first league-leading season came in 1998 with the Toronto Raptors, followed by three more seasons with the Denver Nuggets in 2006, 2007, and 2008. Camby was known for his ability to alter shots and anchor defenses, contributing significantly to his teams’ defensive success.
3. Mark Eaton, Jazz
Mark Eaton led the league in blocks four times, all with the Utah Jazz. His block titles came in 1984, 1985, 1987 and 1988. Eaton holds the NBA single-season record for most blocks per game (5.6), achieved in 1985. His shot-blocking ability was central to Utah’s defensive strategy during his career, and he was a two-time Defensive Player of the Year.
4. Anthony Davis, Pelicans
Anthony Davis has led the NBA in blocks three times, all with the New Orleans Pelicans. He topped the league in 2014, 2015 and 2018. Known for his versatility as a defender, Davis’s ability to block shots and guard multiple positions has made him a key defensive presence in the modern NBA.
5. George T. Johnson, Nets and Spurs
George T. Johnson led the league in blocks three times during his career. He first did so in 1978 with the New Jersey Nets, followed by two more seasons in 1981 and 1982 with the San Antonio Spurs. Though not as well-known as some other players on this list, Johnson’s defensive contributions were critical to his teams.
6. Dikembe Mutombo, Nuggets
Dikembe Mutombo, a Hall of Fame player and eight-time All-Star, led the NBA in blocks three consecutive times with the Denver Nuggets from 1994 to 1996. Mutombo was a four-time Defensive Player of the Year and is considered one of the greatest shot-blockers in NBA history, ranking second all-time in total career blocks.
7. Hakeem Olajuwon, Rockets
Hakeem Olajuwon led the league in blocks three times with the Houston Rockets in 1990, 1991 and 1993. Olajuwon is one of the most complete centers in NBA history, and his shot-blocking was a significant part of his overall defensive ability. He ranks first all-time in total blocks in NBA history.
8. Theo Ratliff, 76ers, Hawks and Trail Blazers
Theo Ratliff led the league in blocks three times across his career. He first did so in 2001 with the Philadelphia 76ers, followed by 2003 with the Atlanta Hawks and 2004 while splitting time between the Hawks and the Portland Trail Blazers. Ratliff’s shot-blocking ability allowed him to maintain a long career as a defensive specialist.
9. Two-Time Block Leaders
Several players have led the league in blocks for two seasons:
Manute Bol(Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors): Bol led the league in blocks in 1986 and 1989.
Dwight Howard(Orlando Magic): Howard, a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, led the NBA in blocks in 2009 and 2010.
Serge Ibaka(Oklahoma City Thunder): Ibaka led the league in blocks in 2012 and 2013.
Jaren Jackson Jr.(Memphis Grizzlies): Jackson led the NBA in blocks in consecutive seasons in 2022 and 2023.
Alonzo Mourning(Miami Heat): Mourning, a Hall of Fame player, led the league in blocks in 1999 and 2000.
Myles Turner(Indiana Pacers): Turner led the NBA in blocks in 2019 and 2021, establishing himself as one of the league’s top rim protectors.
Hassan Whiteside(Miami Heat, Portland Trail Blazers): Whiteside led the league in blocks in 2016 and 2020.