6. Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves
Towns continued his emergence as an elite offensive talent last season, scoring with historic efficiency at all three levels. He averaged 21.3 points and 12.3 rebounds and shot 42.1 percent on 3.5 three-point attempts per game. There’s a reason people want him getting more touches in Minnesota’s offense.
5. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
Jokic is the hub of an elite Nuggets offense, providing offensive value that few — if any — centers can match. He needs to leverage his scoring prowess more often, but he’s a strong floor spacer and elite playmaker, averaging 6.1 assists per game.
When it comes to passing, few players blend flash and substance as well as Jokic. He was also Denver’s leading scorer last season, so it’s not as though he’s sacrificing impact in other facets. His defense is bad, but his ability to orchestrate an offense is wholly unique and gives him a leg up over Towns — for now, at least.
4. Al Horford, Boston Celtics
Horford might be a top-five defender in the NBA, providing versatility that no other starting center can match. He’ll spend time on guards by design, giving the Celtics a long-armed perimeter defender who can contain quick-footed players off the bounce. He’s also an apt interior defender due to his instincts and positioning, even if shot blocking isn’t a strength.
On the offensive end, Horford shot 42.9 percent from three-point range last season. He’s also the best non-Jokic passer at his position, dishing out 4.7 assists per game last season. Add in the ability to attack closeouts and handle in straight-line drives, and you have a dynamic threat on both ends.