Nobody can protect the ball against Dyson Daniels right now originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Atlanta Hawks guard Dyson Daniels is wasting no time reminding the NBA why he is considered one of the league's most disruptive perimeter defenders.
Through the first two games of the season, Daniels has already recorded an impressive 12 steals, demonstrating the defensive instincts, quick hands, and relentless effort that have made him a nightmare for opposing ball handlers.
While scoring performances typically dominate headlines around the NBA, Daniels is proving that defense can be just as impactful.
His ability to anticipate passing lanes, pressure opposing guards, and create turnovers has provided Atlanta with an important defensive presence early in the season.
For the Hawks, Daniels' production represents more than an impressive individual statistic. His defensive activity creates additional transition opportunities, allowing Atlanta to push the basketball and generate easier scoring chances.
Daniels recorded five steals in Atlanta's 132-125 season-opening victory over the Orlando Magic, finishing with 20 points, four rebounds, and three assists.
Daniels making case for defensive player of the year
He followed that performance with seven steals in Friday's dominant 128-81 victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Daniels also contributed 11 points, nine rebounds, and four assists as Atlanta improved to 2-0.
His 12 steals are the most by any NBA player through the first two games of a season this century.
Following Friday's victory, Daniels acknowledged that Charlotte made some costly mistakes.
"In this game they were just giving it to me, I'm not going to lie. They were throwing it in my hands," Daniels said.
The Australian guard's defensive performance is quickly becoming one of the biggest storylines surrounding Atlanta's undefeated start.
With Daniels leading the defensive charge, the Hawks are showing early signs of becoming a dangerous team in the Eastern Conference.
If Daniels maintains anything close to this production, another All-Defensive selection could be within reach.
For now, one thing is clear: opposing teams must be extremely careful whenever Daniels is guarding the basketball.
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