As we approach the All-Star break in the 2025-26 NBA season, the league’s top thieves are making a strong case for just how valuable defense still is in today’s offense-heavy game. These players aren’t just racking up steals-they’re dictating tempo, flipping momentum, and anchoring team identities with their ability to disrupt plays before they even begin. Let’s take a closer look at the league leaders in steals per game (SPG), and how each of them is leaving their mark on this season.
1. Cason Wallace - 2.1 SPG
Wallace has quietly become one of the most disruptive perimeter defenders in the league. He’s not out there gambling-he’s calculating.
His reads on passing lanes are sharp, his footwork is crisp, and his anticipation is elite. Wallace doesn’t just chase the ball; he cuts off the oxygen to an entire side of the floor.
At 2.1 steals per game, tied for the league lead, he’s proving that defense can be a calling card-and for the Thunder, he’s becoming a cornerstone.
2. Kawhi Leonard - 2.1 SPG
Kawhi might not be logging the heaviest minutes this season, but when he’s on the floor, his presence is unmistakable. The hands are still massive, the timing still impeccable.
Leonard plays defense like a surgeon-precise, methodical, and devastating. His ability to force turnovers without overextending is rare, and opponents still think twice before testing him.
Even in a limited role, Kawhi’s defensive impact is undeniable.
3. Tyrese Maxey - 2.0 SPG
Maxey’s evolution into a two-way force continues. Known for his scoring, he’s now making just as much noise on the other end.
His quickness isn’t just for getting buckets-it’s for hounding ball-handlers, jumping passing lanes, and turning defense into instant offense. Maxey’s 2.0 steals per game show that he’s not just an offensive weapon; he’s a catalyst on both ends for the Sixers.
4. Ausar Thompson - 1.9 SPG
If you’re looking for hustle and defensive IQ, Ausar Thompson brings both in bunches. He’s got the wingspan and lateral quickness to cover ground fast, and he’s already showing a knack for baiting opponents into bad decisions.
At 1.9 steals per game, he’s a key piece of Detroit’s defensive identity-and he’s just getting started.
5. Dyson Daniels - 1.9 SPG
Daniels might not be matching last season’s eye-popping 3.0 SPG pace, but don’t let that fool you-he’s still a defensive menace. Whether it’s on-ball pressure, help-side rotations, or blitzing pick-and-rolls, Daniels brings relentless energy and smart reads.
He forces opponents to play clean, or pay. His instincts remain among the best in the league.
**6. O.G.
Anunoby - 1.7 SPG**
Anunoby is the Swiss Army knife of perimeter defense.
He can switch onto almost anyone, and he’s got the timing to poke the ball loose at just the right moment. His 1.7 steals per game don’t tell the whole story-his versatility and ability to disrupt across positions make him one of the most valuable defenders in the league.
7. Donovan Mitchell - 1.5 SPG
Mitchell’s offensive game often takes center stage, but his defense has quietly become a consistent asset. He’s aggressive on the perimeter, fights through screens, and has a knack for jumping passing lanes.
His 1.5 steals per game are a byproduct of his commitment to being a true two-way player. When Mitchell locks in, he’s a problem on both ends.
8. Trey Murphy III - 1.5 SPG
Murphy’s known for his shooting, but his defense is turning heads too. He’s long, alert, and opportunistic-especially on weak-side rotations.
His ability to anticipate and capitalize on loose passes makes him a sneaky-good defender. That blend of offensive firepower and defensive awareness gives his team a valuable edge on the wing.
9. VJ Edgecombe - 1.51 SPG
Edgecombe might not be logging the same minutes as some others on this list, but when he’s on the court, he makes it count. His energy is infectious, and his hands are always active.
Whether it’s in transition or in half-court sets, Edgecombe finds ways to create chaos. His steal numbers reflect just how quickly he can change a possession-and a game.
10. Jordan Goodwin - 1.50 SPG
Goodwin is the kind of defender who doesn’t need a spotlight to make an impact. He plays with grit, urgency, and a nose for the ball.
His ability to generate turnovers through smart positioning and quick reactions has carved out a meaningful role for him. At 1.5 steals per game, he’s proving that defensive intensity can earn you minutes-and respect.
Final Word
As we head into All-Star weekend, it’s clear that these defensive standouts are doing more than just padding stat sheets.
They’re changing games. Steals might not always make the highlight reel, but they flip possessions, fuel fast breaks, and swing momentum in a heartbeat.
These players are showing that in a league obsessed with offense, defense still wins moments-and maybe even championships.
Stats current as of February 10, 2026.