Ranking NBA starting centers — 18. Kristaps Porzinigs, Wizards
The Wizards made the surprising decision to trade for Kristaps Porzingis at the deadline. He provides them with more offensive versatility in the frontcourt and another legitimate 20-point scorer next to Bradley Beal, should the All-Star guard decide to stick around next season. This has been an tumultuous season for Porzinigs, but his production has remained respectable across the board: 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.0 block on .454/.289/.874 shooting splits.
His dip in 3-point percentage is only a minor concern, and one that is almost certainly going to rectify itself in the future. Porzingis’ inefficiency at the rim and fragile frame are ongoing issues, but he can stretch out the defense on one end and provide ample shot-blocking on the other end. He should do good things in Washington.
Ranking NBA starting centers — 17. Brook Lopez, Bucks
The Bucks have been without Brook Lopez all season, an absence that was felt with particular harshness early in the campaign. While Bobby Portis has filled in admirably, the Bucks no doubt miss Brook Lopez’s steadfast presence on both sides of the ball (not to mention the inherent depth of having Portis as the sixth man, rather than the starter).
Lopez has over time developed into an efficient spot-up shooter to go along with his nifty post-up game. He has also been a key anchor for Milwaukee’s defense in recent years. Giannis gets a lot of the credit for the Bucks’ smothering defense, and rightfully so, but Giannis is most comfortable taking the risks he takes when Lopez is there to back him up inside.
Ranking NBA starting centers — 16. Myles Turner, Pacers
Myles Turner is an annual threat to lead the NBA in blocked shots (2.8 per game). His rim protection in the basis for his reputation, and injuries are the only obstacle seemingly between Turner and his first All-Defensive team nomination. With Domantas Sabonis now out of the picture, Turner is the centerpiece of Indiana’s frontcourt. His production should increase accordingly once he’s back healthy.
For the season, Turner is averaging 12.9 points and 7.1 rebounds on .509/.333/.752 splits. His ability to swat shots and drain 3s is enough to insure long-term value in the NBA. Offenses just play differently when Turner is looming in the paint. If he can kick it up another level offensively as Indiana retools, he could rise a few spots on this list.