Dyson Daniels, a rising star in the NBA, has not only etched his name into the league's vibrant history, but he has also redefined defensive excellence for a new generation. The Australian guard is making headlines after achieving a remarkable milestone: he recorded the most steals in a single NBA season since the 2008-09 campaign, breaking records while playing for the Atlanta Hawks.
In a recent game against the Charlotte Hornets on March 19, 2025, Daniels showcased his defensive prowess, tallying three steals that pushed his total to 194 over 63 games. This season, Daniels surpassed notable figures like Ricky Rubio and Baron Davis, whose previously held records came in a time when defense was a top priority for teams. The last player to surpass Daniels' mark was Chris Paul, who notched 216 steals in the 2008-09 season.
Interestingly, Daniels isn't just a one-dimensional player. He turned heads not only with his defense but also his scoring ability, adding 22 points on 10-of-12 shooting and contributing seven assists in the blowout victory of 134-102 against the Hornets. His all-around game has garnered attention and praise throughout the league, proving that he is a key asset for the Hawks.
As a result of his impressive performance and statistical achievements, Daniels is currently viewed as one of the leading candidates for the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, alongside Cleveland Cavaliers player Evan Mobley. This comes after the previous consensus favorite, Victor Wembanyama, was deemed ineligible due to injuries that sidelined him for a significant part of the season. The shift in focus to Daniels underscores how defensive skills are being recognized and rewarded in modern basketball.
The accolades have not come without hard work and determination. Over the course of this season, Daniels has averaged just over three steals per game. If he maintains this average over Atlanta's last 13 games, he is on track to finish among the top 15 players in steals for a single season in NBA history. Stats like this are rarely seen, and it highlights how effective Daniels has been on the court.
Reflecting on his journey, Daniels remains humble. "I just try to take it game by game and focus on what my team needs from me," he stated. His commitment to improvement and teamwork has been the cornerstone of his success. At just a young age, he has garnered respect from veterans and teammates alike, showing leadership qualities that are often recognized as rare in such a young player.
With the NBA playoffs creeping closer, the spotlight on Daniels is sure to grow. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about his potential contributions and overall impact on the postseason. As long as he continues to make plays and fill up the stat sheet, there’s no telling how far he can lead the Hawks.
This latest achievement not only adds a remarkable chapter to Daniels' career but also raises the question: Can he sustain his record-setting pace and secure the Defensive Player of the Year title? As basketball enthusiasts eagerly await the next games on the schedule, all eyes will certainly be on Dyson Daniels and the Atlanta Hawks.
