The NBA is a league often characterised by the play of its star big men. In a league where a quality center is of so much value and of such rarity, it is a true honour to amongst the best.
In this column I will rank the best centers in the league by 2010-11 play and by potential moving forward.
Firstly, some honourable mentions:
Andrew Bynum:
Being only 23 years old, Bynum has a big shot at properly establishing himself as a great center. His failure to stay consistently healthy has him out of the top ten despite good numbers (11.6PPG, 8.8RPG and 1.9BPG in 27 minutes).
Greg Oden:
Another young player with plenty of potential, Oden has also been crippled by injuries. Oden, who has suffered numerous injuries in his three-year span in the league, has only managed to play 82 games in that time. With plenty of upside, in the unlikely case that he can stay healthy, he can be a force down-low on a good team.
Yao Ming:
It seems like all the best centers get injured much too often. Yao is another example of this. In the last two seasons Yao has only managed to play five games. For a man who once competed for the spot as best center, Yao’s injuries have forced a dramatic fall from grace that has caused him to consider retirement.
Now to the top ten:
10. Andrea Bargnani.
Bargnani is one of the best offensive centers in the game. His 21.8 PPG ranks second amongst league centers. Problem is Bargnani has very little talent surrounding him and so has many more shots per game then he would have on, say, the Boston Celtics.
He seems often incapable of playing defence and his rebounding numbers are well below standard (5.5RPG). Despite this, his stellar offensive play earns him the first spot on this list.
9. Nene.
The Denver Nuggets big man has had a career season averaging 15.1PPG and 7.5RPG. With the departure of Carmelo Anthony, his role has increased and should fetch a high price should he enter free-agency this off-season.
8. DeMarcus Cousins.
The rookie has had a great year with the Kings, averaging 14.3PPG and 8.5RPG on just 28 minutes. If he can control his temperamental side he has a solid chance to be an All-Star and one of the best centers in the league. His upside is enormous and it will show in his continual development in the next few years.
7. Tyson Chandler.
His numbers may not show it, but Chandler has been the biggest contributor (aside from Dirk) to Dallas’ success in season 2010-11. His great rebounding and his superb offensive efficiency have been key to Dallas’ stellar play. His 10.4PPG and 9.3RPG may be low, but he has been essential to the Mavs success this year. Expect him to be re-signed on a big deal this off-season.
6. Joakim Noah.
The Bulls center is amongst the best big man defenders in the league. His play has been stellar and has contributed well to the Eastern leading Bulls (12.5 PPG 11.6RPG, 1.5BPG. Had he avoided injury this year he would be higher.
5. Andrew Bogut.
The Australian favourite has had a down year in Milwaukee but is full of potential. If he can avoid injury and come back fit and healthy next year the Bucks will have a good shot at making the playoffs. The team is run around him and he is crucial to their success. He leads the league in blocks (2.65) and third in rebounding amongst centers (11.4). If he can stay healthy next year he is primed to move up.
4. Al Jefferson.
The Utah Jazz center has had another good year numbers wise averaging 18.9PPG, 9.5RPG and 2BPG. With the departure of Deron Williams his offensive role has been stepped up. If the Jazz can continue to utilize his talents he can be a big contributor.
3. Tim Duncan.
Although he is considered by many to be a power-forward, he has lodged the majority of his minutes in the middle this season. His individual stats gave dropped but the “Big Fundamental” has carried the Spurs to the league’s best record.
13.3PPG and 9.1RPG are well below his career averages (20.6PPG, 11.4 RPG), but his ability to win games is unmatched in league centers. A great man and a great teammate, many in the league could learn from his winning ways.
2. Al Horford.
Whilst not a traditional center, Horford is having a great season. He is fifth amongst centers in scoring (15.9PPG) and fourth in rebounds (9.8). at only 6’10” and playing out of his natural PF position, Horford still manages to find ways to be one of the best centers in the league. His team’s great play and his individual skill set make him deserving of the number two spot.
1. Dwight Howard.
Hands down the league’s best center, Howard is a dominant force on offense and defence. A shoe-in for his third straight defensive player of the year award and a top three chance for MVP honours, Howard is having a magnificent year. At age 25 Howard is averaging 22.9PPG 14RPG and 2.4 BPG on the season. Barring a serious injury, he will be atop this list for many years to come.
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