Philadelphia 76ers: Ranking Joel Embiid as a center 2021

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Robert Williams (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

25. DeAndre Jordan

Sometimes DeAndre Jordan is starting for the Brooklyn Nets and sometimes he’s getting a DNP-CD. When he doesn’t play, Black Griffin starts in his place. Jordan is past his prime, which isn’t a good thing for players who relied heavily on his athleticism. He can still get rebounds but he’s lost a lot defensively and barely provided anything on offense before this decline.

24. Robert Williams

After trading Daniel Theis to the Bulls, the Boston Celtics have embraced Robert Williams as their starting center. However, foul problems and injuries have limited his time on the court. However, when he does play the undersized center has played stellar defense and has a solid passing game. At only 6-foot-8, it will be interesting to see if he can maintain the starting role long term being that undersized.

23. Jakob Poeltl

The San Antonio Spurs had LaMarcus Aldridge, but it was clear that he and the team wanted to go in different directions so they bought him out. While Aldridge’s career is now over because of heart issues, the Spurs have moved on to Jakob Poeltl who is a very good interior defend and rebounder, however, he’s limited offensive.

22. Mason Plumlee

The rebuilding Detroit Pistons overpaid for Mason Plumlee who is currently in his prime. Plumlee is a solid rebounder and defender, while also being an underrated passer. He’s average on offense, but he’s getting to start and put up solid numbers on a rebuilding team. Detroit should trade him in the future to join a contender.

21. Ivica Zubac

If Serge Ibaka were healthy, he’d be representing the Los Angeles Clippers on this list and would be a few spots higher than his replacement. That being written, Ivica Zubac is a great rebounder, screener, and defender. He doesn’t provide much on offensively but with other centers like Ibaka and DeMarcus Cousins on the roster, it’s ok that they don’t get much out of him.