Andrei Kirilenko (2001-2015)
It took two years for Andrei Kirilenko to make his NBA debut after being selected in the first-round of the 1999 NBA Draft. It was quickly realized that the wait was well worth it for the Jazz. Kirilenko immediately became one of the league’s premier defenders. His length, athleticism, and anticipation made him suitable to guard just about any player in the league. From his rookie campaign in 2002 until ’07, Kirilenko averaged 2.5 blocks per game and 1.5 steals per game — numbers only achieved previously by Hakeem Olajuwon.
Why he would dominate today’s NBA: Kirilenko’s defensive prowess would make him one of the most sought-after role players in the modern NBA. He had the speed and size to bother the league’s best perimeter players, but could also protect the rim like a center. Putting Kirilenko on a team like the current Warriors is an ideal match as he wouldn’t have to worry about offense and can primarily focus on being a defensive stopper.
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