The definition of “unicorn” in NBA parlance has changed frequently since Kevin Durant used the term to describe Kristaps Porzingis two years ago. Is the long-limbed Giannis Antetokounmpo a “unicorn?” He is unique, but Durant used it to reference Porzingis’s almost unparalleled ability to protect the rim and consistently knock down threes.
For all the NBA big men expanding their offensive games out beyond the arc, few aside from Porzingis are balancing that with elite defensive contributions. Joel Embiid might be one, but 32.7 percent shooting is hardly elite. Myles Turner, Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol might have cases as well.