The 2023-24 NBA season features a lineup of top-tier centers who excel on both offense and defense. These players are crucial to their teams’ achievements, offering scoring, rebounding, and defensive skills. This article highlights the best centers in the NBA, featuring standout talents like Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, and Anthony Davis.
From MVP candidates to emerging young stars, this list explores the unique abilities and contributions of these elite players. You’ll find detailed insights and statistics that explain why these athletes are considered the best centers in the NBA for the 2023-24 season. Whether it’s Jokic’s unmatched passing skills or Embiid’s powerful scoring, these centers represent excellence in basketball.
How We Rank NBA Centers
To determine the best centers in the NBA, we look at several key performance metrics:
Scoring and Rebounding
- Points per game: Shows how well a player can score.
- Rebounds: Highlights their skill in grabbing missed shots.
Playmaking Ability
- Assists: Important for centers known for setting up their teammates.
Defensive Skills
Defensive contributions often set elite centers apart from others. We consider:
- Blocks per game: Indicates shot-blocking ability.
- Defensive rebounds: Reflects skill in securing possessions.
- Defensive rating: Provides an overall measure of defensive impact.
Versatility on the Court
Versatility is another crucial factor. Centers who can:
- Shoot from outside
- Handle the ball well
- Switch positions on defense
These skills make them valuable assets to their teams.
By combining these stats with an understanding of each player’s unique abilities and contributions to their team’s success, this ranking aims to accurately represent the best centers in the league.
Top 10 Centers in the NBA for the 2023-24 Season
1. Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets)
Nikola Jokic, often regarded as the best player in the NBA, has revolutionized the center position with his elite passing ability and exceptional scoring average. His unique skill set has been instrumental in leading the Denver Nuggets to their first championship, solidifying his status as an MVP candidate.
Key Strengths
Jokic is known for his:
- Post threats: His dominance in the post makes him a constant offensive threat.
- Unblockable fadeaway shot: This signature move is nearly impossible to defend.
- Exceptional passing ability: Averaging 9.8 assists per game, Jokic’s vision and playmaking are unparalleled among centers.
His impact on the Nuggets’ championship run cannot be overstated. By orchestrating the offense from the center position, Jokic facilitates a fluid, dynamic playstyle that maximizes team efficiency. His ability to find open teammates and create scoring opportunities elevates the performance of those around him.
Statistical Highlights
- Points: 24.5 per game
- Rebounds: 11.8 per game
- Assists: 9.8 per game
These statistics underscore Jokic’s all-around excellence and versatility on the court. His scoring prowess, combined with his rebounding and playmaking abilities, make him a triple-double threat every night. This rare combination of skills sets him apart from other centers in the league.
Nikola Jokic’s role in transforming how modern centers contribute offensively while maintaining traditional strengths like rebounding is a testament to his extraordinary talent and basketball IQ. His contributions are not only reflected in personal accolades but also in elevating his team’s success on the biggest stages.
2. Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers) – Reigning MVP with Dominant Scoring Ability and Defensive Presence

Joel Embiid, the reigning MVP, stands as a towering force for the Philadelphia 76ers. Averaging an impressive 33.1 points per game, Embiid’s scoring prowess makes him one of the most dominant offensive centers in the league. His ability to score from multiple spots on the court, combined with his physicality and finesse, sets him apart from many of his peers.
Defensively, Embiid is equally impactful. Acting as a defensive anchor for the 76ers, he disrupts opposing offenses with his shot-blocking ability and presence in the paint. This dual role of being a top scorer and a defensive stalwart places him in an elite category.
When comparing Embiid to past MVPs, his blend of scoring and defensive contributions evokes memories of legends like Hakeem Olajuwon and Shaquille O’Neal. Both players were known not only for their scoring but also for their significant defensive impact, much like Embiid today.
Key Highlights:
- Scoring Average: 33.1 points per game
- Defensive Role: Key defensive anchor for the team
- Comparison: Similar impact as past MVPs like Olajuwon and O’Neal
His dominance on both ends of the court continues to shape Philadelphia’s strategy and success, making him one of the best centers in the NBA today.
3. Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers) – Two-Way Player Excelling in Rim Protection and Versatility
Anthony Davis stands out among the best centers in the NBA due to his remarkable two-way playing capabilities. Frequently mentioned alongside Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, Bam Adebayo, and others, Davis brings a unique blend of scoring and defensive prowess to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Scoring and Rebounding
Anthony Davis consistently averages over 25 points per game while pulling down around 12 rebounds. His scoring range extends from powerful dunks to mid-range jumpers, making him a versatile offensive threat. This scoring consistency places him among elite centers like Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid.
Defensive Contributions
Known for his elite rim protection, Davis excels in blocking shots and altering opponents’ attempts near the basket. His defensive presence is crucial for the Lakers’ strategy, often anchoring their defense with his agility and shot-blocking ability.
Versatility
Davis’s versatility extends to his role in the Lakers’ lineup, where he can play both power forward and center positions effectively. This adaptability allows the Lakers to switch defensive schemes seamlessly and exploit mismatches on offense. In fact, his ability to play multiple positions makes him one of the most valuable players in the league.
Anthony Davis’s impact on both ends of the court makes him an invaluable asset for the Los Angeles Lakers, contributing significantly to their defensive strategy and overall success.
4. Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat) – Versatile Defender with Playmaking Abilities Making a Key Impact
Bam Adebayo plays a crucial role in the success of the Miami Heat. Known for his defensive skills and playmaking abilities, Adebayo is a key player in the team’s strategy on both offense and defense.
Defensive Contributions
Adebayo is recognized as one of the best defenders among centers in the NBA, often tasked with guarding multiple positions. His ability to switch onto guards and wings while protecting the rim makes him invaluable.
Offensive Impact
Averaging 20.4 points per game, Bam Adebayo is not just a defensive specialist. His offensive game includes strong finishing around the basket and an improving mid-range shot, making him a versatile scorer.
Playmaking Abilities
Unlike many traditional centers, Adebayo excels in facilitating offense. His passing ability allows Miami to run their offense through him at the high post or in pick-and-roll situations.
Adaptability
One of Adebayo’s greatest strengths is his adaptability. Whether it’s adjusting to different defensive assignments or stepping up as a scorer when needed, he consistently meets the team’s needs.
Bam Adebayo’s versatility makes him one of the best centers in the NBA, contributing significantly to Miami Heat’s competitive edge. His all-around game sets him apart from peers like Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, and Anthony Davis in unique ways.
5. Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento Kings) – Offensive Success Driven by Screening Skills and Passing Abilities
Domantas Sabonis has become a pivotal figure in the Sacramento Kings’ offense, showcasing a skill set that stands out among the best centers in the NBA. His ability to facilitate the offense through exceptional screening and passing capabilities is unparalleled.
Key Contributions:
- Screening Skills: Sabonis excels in setting effective screens, creating opportunities for his teammates to score. This ability to disrupt defenses establishes him as a critical player in Sacramento’s offensive schemes.
- Passing Abilities: Known for his court vision, Sabonis consistently delivers precise passes that enhance the fluidity of the Kings’ offense. His passing ability often draws comparisons to other elite centers like Nikola Jokic.
Statistical Performance:
- Points per Game: 19.1
- Rebounds per Game: 12.3
- Assists per Game: 6.7
These statistics highlight his well-rounded game, contributing significantly on both ends of the court.
Sabonis’s unique skill set not only makes him an essential player for Sacramento but also places him among notable centers like Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, and Bam Adebayo. His contributions drive the Kings’ offensive success, ensuring they remain competitive in every game they play.
6. Brook Lopez (Milwaukee Bucks) – Defensive Player of the Year Runner-Up with Shooting Skills Reshaping Center Play
Brook Lopez has redefined what it means to be a modern center in the NBA. As the Defensive Player of the Year runner-up, his contributions on both ends of the court have been invaluable to the Milwaukee Bucks.
Defensive Contributions
Lopez’s defensive prowess is a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s strategy. His ability to protect the rim, combined with his shot-blocking skills, makes him a formidable presence in the paint. His defensive metrics often place him among the league leaders in blocks and defensive win shares.
Offensive Spacing
Lopez’s shooting ability sets him apart from traditional centers. He has embraced the three-point shot, providing crucial spacing for his teammates. His proficiency from beyond the arc forces opposing defenses to stretch, creating more opportunities for players like Giannis Antetokounmpo to operate inside.
Three-Point Shooting Impact
The importance of three-point shooting for a center cannot be overstated. Lopez’s ability to knock down long-range shots transforms how teams defend against Milwaukee. His shooting opened up new dimensions in offensive schemes, making it harder for defenses to collapse into the paint.
Lopez’s versatility and unique skill set make him an indispensable part of the Bucks’ lineup, illustrating how centers are evolving in today’s NBA landscape.
7. Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves) – Defensive Prowess Anchored by Double-Double Threat Status
Rudy Gobert stands out among the best centers in the NBA due to his exceptional defensive prowess and consistent double-double performances. As a three-time Defensive Player of the Year, Gobert has solidified his reputation as one of the league’s premier rim protectors. His ability to alter shots and dominate the paint is unmatched, making him a cornerstone of the Minnesota Timberwolves’ defense.
Key Strengths:
- Defensive Impact: Gobert’s presence in the paint deters opponents from driving to the basket, effectively lowering their shooting percentages.
- Rebounding Machine: Averaging double digits in rebounds each season, Gobert ensures his team controls the boards on both ends of the floor.
Despite his individual accolades, Gobert has faced challenges with team chemistry since joining Minnesota. Integrating his skill set with the Timberwolves’ existing roster has been a work in progress. However, his defensive contributions remain invaluable, providing a foundation for Minnesota’s defensive schemes.
Gobert’s consistency as a double-double threat underscores his importance. His impact is felt not just through blocks and rebounds but also through his ability to anchor a defense night in and night out.
8. Jarrett Allen (Cleveland Cavaliers) – Athletic Rebounding Force Making Strides in Development
Jarrett Allen’s performance metrics make him a pivotal figure in the Cleveland Cavaliers lineup. Averaging 14 points and nearly 10 rebounds per game, Allen’s athleticism and rebounding ability set him apart from other centers. His consistent double-doubles provide a reliable foundation for the Cavaliers’ frontcourt.
Allen’s growth as a key player is apparent in his defensive presence and ability to finish at the rim. His shot-blocking skills and agility allow him to defend against versatile offensive players, providing Cleveland with much-needed stability on defense. This development has made him an indispensable part of the team’s strategy.
Performance Metrics:
- Points: 14 per game
- Rebounds: Nearly 10 per game
Key Contributions:
- Defensive versatility
- Effective rim protection
- Consistent double-double performances
In the ever-competitive landscape featuring centers like Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo, Domantas Sabonis, Brook Lopez, Rudy Gobert, Deandre Ayton, and Nic Claxton, Jarrett Allen’s contributions are vital for Cleveland’s aspirations.
9. Deandre Ayton (Portland Trail Blazers) – Scoring Potential Clouded by Consistency Issues After Transitioning Teams
Deandre Ayton’s recent move from the Phoenix Suns to the Portland Trail Blazers is a big change in his career. Known for his scoring abilities and rebounding skills, Ayton has shown glimpses of brilliance that indicate he could be a dominant force in the NBA.
Scoring and Rebounding Potential:
- Scoring Capabilities: Ayton has shown he can score efficiently near the basket, using his size and soft touch. His offensive skills make him valuable in pick-and-roll plays and low-post moves.
- Rebounding Ability: Ayton’s physicality and presence in the paint have allowed him to consistently average double-digit rebounds. This part of his game is important for securing possessions and creating second-chance opportunities.
Consistency Issues:
- Inconsistencies: Despite his potential, Ayton has struggled with consistency. His performance can vary, affecting his overall contributions to the team.
- Transition Impact: Moving to Portland brings new opportunities but also requires adjusting to a different system and teammates. This transition period will be crucial for Ayton to prove himself as a dependable center for the Trail Blazers.
Ayton’s journey will be closely followed as he aims to establish himself among the top centers in the NBA, joining the likes of Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo, Domantas Sabonis, Brook Lopez, Rudy Gobert, Jarrett Allen, and Nic Claxton.
10. Nic Claxton (Brooklyn Nets) – Emerging Talent Shining Through Shot-Blocking Ability at the Center Position
Nic Claxton, a rising star for the Brooklyn Nets, showcases immense potential as one of the best centers in the NBA. His shot-blocking prowess has quickly made him a defensive cornerstone for his team, effectively altering opponent strategies and protecting the rim.
Contributions on Defense
- Shot-Blocking: Claxton has established himself as a formidable shot-blocker, frequently ranking among league leaders in blocks per game.
- Rebounding: His athleticism and timing enable him to secure critical rebounds, both offensively and defensively.
- Versatility: He can guard multiple positions, adding a layer of versatility to Brooklyn’s defensive schemes.
Potential for Future Growth
- Offensive Development: While primarily known for his defense, Claxton’s offensive game continues to evolve. He shows promise in finishing around the rim and improving his mid-range shooting.
- Increased Role: As he gains more experience, Claxton is likely to take on a larger role within the Nets’ lineup, contributing more significantly on both ends of the floor.
Nic Claxton’s emergence as a young talent highlights his potential to become a dominant center in the league. His defensive skills are already elite, and with continuous development, he could soon be mentioned alongside established names like Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, and Anthony Davis.
Other Notable Centers to Watch Out For This Season!
Myles Turner (Indiana Pacers): Shot-Blocking Specialist Making Offensive Contributions Known!
Myles Turner has consistently been one of the top shot-blockers in the NBA. His ability to protect the rim is unparalleled, averaging 2.8 blocks per game. Beyond his defensive prowess, Turner’s offensive game has seen significant growth. He now averages over 18 points per game, showing an improved shooting range that stretches defenses.
Turner’s contributions on both ends make him a valuable asset for the Indiana Pacers. His presence in the paint deters opponents from easy baskets, while his capability to score from mid-range and beyond keeps defenses honest. With his continued development, Turner remains a key player to watch this season.
Clint Capela (Atlanta Hawks): Rebounding Specialist Dominating Pick-and-Roll Situations!
Clint Capela stands out as one of the best centers in the NBA due to his exceptional rebounding skills and dominance in pick-and-roll plays. Known for his ability to crash the boards, Capela consistently ranks among the league leaders in rebounds per game. His presence in the paint provides Atlanta with second-chance opportunities and defensive stability.
Key Skills:
- Rebounding: Averaging double-digit rebounds, crucial for maintaining possession.
- Pick-and-Roll Efficiency: Excellent at setting screens and rolling to the basket, creating easy scoring opportunities.
Capela’s contributions anchor the Hawks’ interior both offensively and defensively. His pick-and-roll efficiency not only creates easy scoring opportunities but also exemplifies his understanding of efficient shot selection, a philosophy that aligns with coach Stan Van Gundy’s approach to segmenting a season for optimal performance.
Jakob Poeltl (Toronto Raptors): Versatile Defender Excelling on Both Ends of the Court
Jakob Poeltl stands out for his comprehensive skill set. Known for his defensive versatility, Poeltl anchors the Raptors’ defense, providing shot-blocking and strong rebounding presence. On offense, his efficient scoring around the rim and ability to set solid screens enhance Toronto’s playmaking.
- Defensive Impact: Key shot-blocker and rebounder.
- Offensive Contributions: Efficient scorer, excellent screener.
- 2023-24 Season Highlights: Continues to be a pivotal figure in the Raptors’ lineup with consistent performances on both ends of the court.
Poeltl’s dual impact makes him an invaluable asset for Toronto.
Walker Kessler (Utah Jazz): Rookie Sensation Bringing Shot-Blocking Skills to Utah!
Walker Kessler, a standout rookie for the Utah Jazz, has quickly made his mark with impressive shot-blocking abilities. Known for his defensive prowess, Kessler averaged 2.7 blocks per game in his debut season.
His presence in the paint has significantly bolstered Utah’s defense, making him a valuable asset. Beyond blocking shots, Kessler also contributes on the boards with an average of 7.2 rebounds per game.
His ability to alter opponents’ shots and dominate the interior makes him a rising star among NBA centers.
The Future of Centers in NBA: Evolution or Revolution?
The role of centers in the NBA is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditional back-to-the-basket play is giving way to positions that demand versatility and multifaceted skills.
Key Trends:
- Increased Shooting Range: Modern centers like Brook Lopez and Nikola Jokic are redefining the position by integrating three-point shooting into their game.
- Playmaking Abilities: Centers such as Bam Adebayo and Domantas Sabonis are showcasing exceptional passing skills, contributing to their teams’ offensive flow.
- Defensive Versatility: Players like Rudy Gobert and Anthony Davis continue to dominate defensively, emphasizing shot-blocking and rebounding.
These shifts illustrate the dynamic nature of the center position. As the NBA evolves, future centers will likely need to combine traditional skills with new-age versatility to remain among the best centers in the NBA.

Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.