2016 NBA Draft: Best perimeter defenders

Feb 2, 2016; Rosemont, IL, USA; DePaul Blue Demons forward Myke Henry (4) dribbles the ball against Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn (3) during the first half at Allstate Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 2, 2016; Rosemont, IL, USA; DePaul Blue Demons forward Myke Henry (4) dribbles the ball against Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn (3) during the first half at Allstate Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 14, 2015; Providence, RI, USA; Harvard Crimson guard Tommy McCarthy (R) dribbles the ball as Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn (L) defends during the first half at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; Providence, RI, USA; Harvard Crimson guard Tommy McCarthy (R) dribbles the ball as Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn (L) defends during the first half at Dunkin Donuts Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Kris Dunn, PG, Providence

Providence’s Kris Dunn is the best perimeter defender in the class and he has the physical profile and statistical history to back it up. Dunn is a 6-4 point guard with a nearly 6-10 wingspan. He already weighs at least 205 pounds (he didn’t weigh in at the NBA Draft Combine) and has a stocky frame that should allow him to battle with bigger opponents on the block should he get switched onto them. He also has great foot speed and can keep up with opposing point guards by moving laterally along the perimeter.

Related Story: Kris Dunn Scouting Report

Dunn’s college statistics also verify his status as an elite defender. During his career at Providence, the top-five prospect posted a 4.1 percent steal rate and averaged 2.8 steals per 40 minutes. His final season’s 3.0 steals per 40 minutes is the best mark among college prospects in the 2016 class. Dunn does occasionally get burned by back cuts because of his tendency to gamble for steals, but the overall results are often worth the risk.

Dunn will likely be a top 10 pick in the 2016 NBA Draft and his defensive skill set is a major reason why. As a big point guard capable of defending multiple positions, he has the potential to be an All-NBA defender at the next level.

To read more about Kris Dunn, click here.

Find more NBA Draft content at our FanSided NBA Draft hub and for updated scouting reports of all NBA draft prospects, check out Upside and Motor.