Ranking NBA starting centers — 21. Ivica Zubac, Clippers
Ivica Zubac has really carved out a home in LA. The Clippers’ defense isn’t what it is without Zubac anchoring the paint. He’s an excellent vertical defender at 7-foot, 240 pounds. He’s also a high-level rebounder and a dominant finisher at the rim, displaying a deft blend of touch, physicality, and footwork. He’s excellent out of the pick-and-roll.
The Clippers have dealt with injuries up and down the roster this season, but Zubac has been one of the few constants. Starting in all 65 of his appearances, the 24-year-old is averaging 10.4 points and 8.5 rebounds on 63.4 percent shooting.
Ranking NBA starting centers — 20. Jusuf Nurkic, Blazers
Very little has gone right for Portland this season, and naturally, Jusuf Nurkic’s future with the franchise has come into question. He fits the somewhat dated archetype of traditional bruiser who defends solely in drop coverage and who, in certain matchups, can be played off the court. In other matchups, however, Nurkic’s physicality can swing the game in Portland’s favor.
For the season, Nurkic is averaging 15.0 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals on 53.4 percent shooting. He’s not the most efficient interior scorer, but he’s a matchup advantage in the post, a passable 3-point threat, a disruptive defender, and one hell of a rebounder. Nurkic has done his job for Portland, even as the team around him crumbles.
Ranking NBA starting centers — 19. Jakob Poeltl, Spurs
The Spurs’ impending rebuild does not take away from Jakob Poeltl’s impressive rise to starting-level center. He’s not only an efficient interior scorer (13.6 points on 62.0 percent shooting), but now one of the NBA’s most underrated defensive anchors. Poeltl is the heart of San Antonio’s defense, with elite shot-blocking instincts, physicality, and a dominant presence on the glass (9.1 rebounds per game).
Listed at 7-foot-1 and 245 pounds, Poeltl is just big. He knows how to throw his weight around and impose his will on smaller opponents inside. He doesn’t have the most diverse skill set, but his high basketball I.Q. and instincts make him one of the Spurs’ most impactful players.