Anunoby, White, Barnes Lead All-Perimeter-Defense First Team

TITLE: Anunoby, White, Barnes Lead All-Perimeter-Defense First Team

OG Anunoby is the undisputed leader of the 2025-26 All-Perimeter-Defense First Team. The New York Knicks’ two-time All-Defensive Team selection has elevated his game with elite anticipation and physicality, especially when guarding star big men like Nikola Jokić. Anunoby’s ability to front and deny passing lanes has helped the Knicks rank second in points allowed per possession over the past two-and-a-half months.

Anunoby’s defensive IQ was on full display during a March matchup against the Denver Nuggets. He recognized the Nuggets’ tendencies and positioned himself to cut off passing lanes without overcommitting. “He wants to catch (at the top of the key),” Anunoby said. “And then, it’s a back screen action or (dribble handoff).” That awareness has made him one of the most versatile defenders in the league.

Derrick White of the Boston Celtics ranks second on the team. The 6-foot-4 guard has redefined his role this season as a rim protector and weak-side disruptor. White is averaging a career-high 1.3 blocks per game, making him only the second player of his height in NBA history to do so, joining Dwyane Wade. Opposing players are shooting just 55 percent on dunks and layups when White is the nearest defender, the best mark among guards.

White’s timing and positioning have made him a key factor in the Celtics’ elite defense. “Just be in the right position,” White said. “Sometimes, you get lucky.” His ability to contest shots without fouling has made him a nightmare for opposing guards and forwards. The Celtics’ defense improves by 10.3 points per 100 possessions when White is on the floor.

Scottie Barnes of the Toronto Raptors rounds out the First Team. The fifth-year forward has emerged as a defensive anchor after the loss of Jakob Poeltl. Barnes averages 1.5 blocks and 1.5 steals per game, a feat not matched since Anthony Davis in 2019-20. His communication and switching ability have helped the Raptors force opponents into the slowest pace in the league, with an average of 15.1 seconds per possession.

Barnes’ impact is felt even when he’s not in the paint. In a recent game against the Phoenix Suns, his defensive adjustments led to a turnover even though he wasn’t near the ball. “I see it’s coming, and I know I’m not gonna switch it,” Anunoby said, echoing the kind of awareness Barnes brings. Barnes has recorded more game-winning stops than any player in the league this season.

The All-Perimeter-Defense First Team also includes Ausar Thompson of the Detroit Pistons, who has made a strong case with his versatility and hustle. Thompson’s defensive versatility and improved playmaking have helped the Pistons climb into the playoff picture.

With the NBA’s All-Defensive Team no longer listing positions, it’s time to give perimeter defenders their due. Anunoby, White, and Barnes have set the standard in 2025-26 with their elite coverage, anticipation, and impact. The next step is seeing how they perform in the playoffs, where defensive execution can define a season.