5. Bam Adebayo, Heat
Despite averaging a career-high in points this past season, Bam Adebayo isn’t known for his offensive game outside of his playmaking skills. Being undersized at 6-foot-9 for a center, that lack of height has helped him become the most versatile defender at his position. He was vital in the Miami Heat’s run to the NBA Finals this past year.
4. Domantas Sabonis, Kings
In his first entire season with the Sacramento Kings, Domantas Sabonis was the key driving force that helped the franchise finally break its long playoff drought. He’s the second-best playmaking big man in the NBA and lead the league in rebounding last season. If the 6-foot-11 big man can improve his scoring a bit more, he’d be in the top three of best centers.
3. Anthony Davis, Lakers
Let’s be clear if Anthony Davis can stay healthy this season and consistently dominate at the top of his game, he’d have a case to be the best player on this list. There were points in last season his name was in the MVP conversation, but injuries stopped his play from being consistent. If the 6-foot-10 big man can consist and be healthy then the Los Angeles Lakers have a chance to win another title this season.
2. Joel Embiid, 76ers
After much hard work and dedication, Joel Embiid finally won his regular season MVP. However, yet again the big man wasn’t healthy in the playoffs and the Philadelphia 76ers were bounced in the second round. That’s why the 7-foot reigning MVP isn’t first on this list. A lack of playoff success is preventing him from being the best center in the league despite leading the NBA in scoring the past two seasons.
1. Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
That leaves Nikola Jokic as the best center in the NBA to the chagrin of most Philadelphia 76ers fans. Jokic has two MVPs, a finals MVP, and many more accolades. The 6-foot-11 center is the best passing center in NBA history and just good enough defensively to anchor the Denver Nuggets moving forward. With Jokic still in his prime, it’s hard to say where he will end up among the greats in NBA history.
Agree with this list? Is the Philadelphia 76ers MVP where he’s supposed to be? Comment your thoughts below.