Sixers: Ranking Joel Embiid and every starting center in the NBA
C. Boston Celtics. Robert Williams III. 15. player. 18.
Ranking NBA starting centers — 15. Robert Williams III, Celtics
The Celtics have the best defense in the NBA right now, in large part because Robert Williams is patrolling the paint. Averaging 2.2 blocks per game, Williams has rounded into form as one of the NBA’s premier rim protectors. He’s also swallowing 9.8 boards per game, proving an all-around physical force at the rim.
On offense, Williams’ vertical threat has proven quite useful next to Boston’s gaggle of perimeter creators. Williams is a highly efficient lob threat. He’s converting on 72.8 percent of his shots, most of which come inside the paint. He has also flashed some real passing chops facilitating from the elbow. He’s the center of the future in Boston.
Houston Rockets. Christian Wood. 14. player. 169. . C
Ranking NBA starting centers — 14. Christian Wood, Rockets
It has been a difficult ride for Christian Wood in Houston. The Rockets’ extreme rebuild doesn’t exactly favor Woods’ current talent level, but it also puts him center stage on a team in desperate need of his offensive talent. Wood has not been entirely consistent this year, but he’s still uniquely versatile when it comes to generating offense at 6-foot-10.
Wood can score from just about everywhere on the court. He can drain long 3s, face up and score off the bounce, or win battles in the post. His feather-soft touch and agile movement make him extremely difficult to contain one-on-one. For the season, he’s averaging 17.7 points and 10.2 rebounds on .492/.378/.611 splits.
Chicago Bulls. Nikola Vucevic. 13. player. 24. . C
Ranking NBA starting centers — 13. Nikola Vucevic, Bulls
Nikola Vucevic deserves the benefit of the doubt. He hasn’t always played like a top-15 center this season, but when he’s right, Vucevic can play like a two-time All-Star with ballet-like footwork and touch in the low post. Vooch hasn’t looked entirely comfortable since arriving in Chicago, but he’s still an important cog in one of the NBA’s top offenses.
For the season, Vucevic is averaging 18.1 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists on .476/.311/.760 splits. His lack of high-level efficiency — especially beyond the arc and at the rim — are concerning, but Vucevic’s size, skill level, and experience provide reasons for optimism as the playoffs approach.