The Value of a Blocked Shot in the NBA: From Dwight Howard to Tim Duncan
The value of a blocked shot can vary along two dimensions. How much did the block contribute to the team's ability to score points (think Bill Russell creating points by starting a fast break for an easy two points) and how much did the block reduce the opponent's ability to score points (think Shane Battier saving points by getting back to block a sure two points on a breakaway layup). We analyze data from the last seven NBA seasons and calculate which NBA players are contributing the most to their teams by blocking shots. The number of blocked shots can be a poor guide as to who is the most valuable shot blocker.
