Whispers all over the league point to Los Angeles Lakers star Anthony Davis as the one poised to be crowned this season's Defensive Player of the Year. But for Utah Jazz swingman Joe Ingles, it's his teammate Rudy Gobert who deserves the award.

Davis seems the top contender to win this year's DPOY award. After all, Davis has been the Lakers' anchor on defense all season long. His defensive efforts have been instrumental in turning the Lakers into a legitimate title contender.

But for Ingles, Rudy Gobert is still the best defender in the league. The Australian believes that his teammate is still in line to win his third consecutive DPOY trophy.

“I would hope so, I think for the last few years he’s obviously been in that top echelon,” Ingles said of his teammate, per Sarah Todd of DeseretNews. “Do I think he’s the best defender in the league? Absolutely.”

In 62 games prior to the suspension of the 2019-20 season, Gobert averaged 15.1 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks. As the Jazz' focal defensive player, Gobert has aided the team to be among the best defenses in the league. Data reveal that the Jazz are within the top 15 of most defensive statistical categories.

While his defensive numbers don't necessarily scream at you, analysts credit Gobert for the intimidation factor he brings. This ability spills on over to the entire Jazz squad.

The NBA has clarified that the last eight regular-season games in the Orlando bubble will count toward end-of-year awards. But Ingles' lobbying might sway the voters to think twice about their choice for Defensive Player of the Year.