deflect - verb

• prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening
• turn from a straight course, fixed direction, or line of interest
• turn aside and away from an initial or intended course
• draw someone's attention away from something
• impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)

deflect - thesaurus

avert   avoid   bend   block   debar   distract   forefend   forfend   obviate   parry