3. C Nerlens Noel
Noel may not seem like the best center in the group at first glance, and he may not be if Embiid plays up to his potential. But his defensive aptitude is a crucial aspect of the Sixers’ rotation, and is something that could provide value on just about any roster in the NBA.
While his offensive game is notably limited outside of the painted area, Noel isn’t entirely incapable. He works well in pick-and-roll scenarios, and is a capable finisher from time to time around the basket when allowed to operate in a manner that suits his skill set. He was a somewhat unfit power forward last year, and his offensive limitations were a big reason why, but he has the ability to, at the very least, hold his own.
Defense is where Noel makes his impact on the game, and he has already established himself as one of the league’s best big men on that side of the ball. Through his first two seasons, Noel is averaging 1.7 blocks and 1.8 steals per game respectively, showcasing his ability to both blocks shots and create turnovers at an uncanny rate from the five spot.
He has been the Sixers’ unquestioned defensive cornerstone throughout his first two seasons on the court, even finding a way to contribute when pushed out of his primary position by the addition of Jahlil Okafor last season. He has the mobility to stretch out to the perimeter without being overly exploited, and is able to get into passing lanes and force steals due to his exceptional instincts and vision out of the post.
When roaming the floor at the five spot, Noel is a premier shot blocker and a much better rebounder that either Okafor or Embiid for the time being. His somewhat lanky frame can be misleading at times given his grit underneath the rim, and his knack for positioning himself well on the boards is a huge asset for a Philly team that has been far more challenged on the boards than many would expect given their emphasis on frontcourt talent.
Noel’s combination of rim protection and steals in rare at the NBA level, as he was the only NBA player to crack the league’s top ten in both blocks and steals during his rookie campaign (when he wasn’t pushed aside to power forward). This is a league tailored towards flexibility at every position, and Noel’s ability to make plays in multiple facets defensively fits very well into the conceptual leaning of today’s NBA.
While he may not be the most talented offensive piece on the team and may have less impressive outings statistically at first glance, the metrics of his performances and the sheer impact he’s able to make as a two-way force earns him a top 3 spot for the time being.
Next: 2. Henderson