Ranking the top 30 centers in the NBA
. C. Indiana Pacers. Myles Turner. 15. player. 100
Top 30 NBA centers — 15. Myles Turner, Pacers
Myles Turner is a strong bet the lead the NBA in blocks in a given year. He is a truly prolific rim protector. He is fearless, athletic, and intelligent. He knows where to be and has the reaction times of a cat. He has also made several notable strides offensively, with the ability to stretch the floor and attack closeouts. There’s a feeling that his offensive ceiling was never quite reached sharing the floor with Domantas Sabonis. A fully healthy season as Indiana’s primary big could really elevate Turner’s status.
14. player. 79. . C. Dallas Mavericks. Christian Wood
Top 30 NBA centers — 14. Christian Wood, Mavericks
The Rockets are maybe the worst team in basketball, which can make it hard to appreciate Christian Wood’s talent. There were times last season where it even felt like Wood was slacking — and, you know what, it’s kind of understandable. At the end of the day, he is one of the most skilled offensive bigs in the NBA. He can bomb 3s. He can push the ball in transition and attack the rim with long, graceful strides. He can post up and operate as a central playmaking hub in the halfcourt. It’s hard to appreciate great talent in crappy situations, but Wood is awesome.
player. 24. . C. Chicago Bulls. Nikola Vucevic. 13
Top 30 NBA centers — 13. Nikola Vucevic, Bulls
Chicago has been one long adjustment period for Nikola Vucevic, who is no longer the big man on campus like he was in Orlando. This season was particularly choppy for Vucevic, but once the playoffs rolled around, he looked like the All-Star of old. His skill level offensively continues to awe, and he’s not that bad on defense. Especially when you consider his dominance on the glass.