Defense Only: Nate Thurmond vs. David Robinson

[AStark1991]

In your opinion, who was the better defensive player?

[70sFan]

That's quite a thread, I love it! I hope to contribute at some point, though I haven't tracked Robinson prime games yet.

[penbeast0]

Robinson gives you better rim protection, quicker, longer, plus an ability to generate steals that only Hakeem and maybe Russell can match. Thurmond has the stronger base, better man coverage in the post, better defensive rebounding. I go with Robinson here but two of the greats so hard to go too far wrong.

[70sFan]

Robinson gives you better rim protection, quicker, longer, plus an ability to generate steals that only Hakeem and maybe Russell can match. Thurmond has the stronger base, better man coverage in the post, better defensive rebounding. I go with Robinson here but two of the greats so hard to go too far wrong.

I doubt Robinson was longer than Thurmond and even though Admiral was more athletic, I am not sure about "quicker", at least in a lateral quickness sense.

[EmpireFalls]

Probably the two most visibly ripped players in NBA history. Even more impressive for Thurmond who did it ahead of the Steroid Revolution.

[tsherkin]

Thurmond probably doesn't get enough respect in general, but with the rather large difference in mobility and perimeter utility, I'd have to go with Robinson.

[migya]

Top 5 defenders ever in my view. Thurmond was a monster, as both Russell and Wilt have said. Robinson might be a hair better but it's so close. Both are cornerstones for their franchises.