Great Barrier Thief Dyson Daniels Breaks NBA Legend’s Record

Dyson Daniels, hailing from Australia, has eclipsed NBA icon Magic Johnson’s record as the youngest player to achieve 200 steals in a single season.

The outstanding guard for the Atlanta Hawks hit this impressive milestone on Monday (AEDT) after intercepting Philadelphia 76ers player Justin Edwards during a commanding 136-114 victory.

In that match, Daniels recorded eight points, five steals, five rebounds, and three assists.

The Bendigo native, affectionately known as the ‘Great Barrier Thief’, secured his 200th steal at the tender age of 22 years and six days.

In comparison, Magic Johnson achieved the same milestone when he was 22 years and 240 days old.

Daniels now stands alongside Hall of Famer Allen Iverson and the future Hall of Famer Chris Paul as the only players in this century to reach 200 steals in a season.

The Boomers representative is currently leading the league in steals, averaging three per game.

Trailing him is Los Angeles Clippers guard Kris Dunn, who averages 1.8 steals per game.

Despite his impressive performances, Daniels faces tough competition for the Defensive Player of the Year award, with Evan Mobley and Draymond Green being considered the frontrunners.

However, Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who has Green on his roster, believes Daniels deserves to be in the conversation.

“He’s got a great chance,” Kerr remarked.

“Reviewing the game tape to prepare for this matchup, I saw him make three steals right off the bat in the first two games. It was incredible. I don’t believe I’ve ever witnessed anything like that.

“Literally in the first three possessions of the game, he made three steals.

“He’s wreaking havoc out there. His hands are quick, and his anticipation is spot on. No doubt, he’s first-team All-Defence and right in the hunt for Defensive Player of the Year.”