Philadelphia 76ers: Ranking Joel Embiid as a center 2021

4 of 7

Richaun Holmes (Photo by Ronald Cortes/Getty Images) /

20. Nerlens Noel

To begin the year, Mitchell Robinson was set to represent New York Knicks. However, due to him getting injured, Nerlens Noel has stepped up in a big way. Statistically, he’s been one of the best defensive centers this season. While he’s not the best defensive, he’s surely a very good one and has been the anchor of the best team defensive in the NBA. The former Philadelphia 76er’s center is making the most of his chance in New York.

“The former Philadelphia 76er’s center is making the most of his chance in New York.”

19. Khem Birch

Until the Orlando Magic bought out Khem Birch, he was just considered a high-quality backup center. However, since he’s joined the Toronto Raptors as their starter, he’s been a solid starter. He can defend and rebound and has a little bit of an offensive game. Sadly, the sample size is small and it’s hard to have him much higher on these rankings than this.

18. Andre Drummond

Originally I had Andre Drummond ranked 11th on this list based on his rebounding skills, which are elite. However, I had to think who would I rather have as my starter versus Drummond and that’s why he’s here. He’s used too much on offense and is good but overrated on defense. The Los Angeles Lakers might be better served to have him as a backup moving forward.

17. Richaun Holmes

Despite being a former second round pick of the Philadelphia 76ers, Richaun Holmes has found a nice home with the Sacramento Kings. He’s a great lob threat, rebounder, and shot blocker. He’s a solid defender too. He was able to hold onto his job this year despite the Kings bringing in Hassan Whiteside this last offseason.

16. Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen was one of the key players in the James Harden trade to the Brooklyn Nets. Allen landed with the Cleveland Cavaliers and his play forced the team to sit Drummond and eventually buy him out. Allen’s going to be a long term piece for the Cavaliers with his rebounding, defense, shot blocking, and lob catching.