NBA: Ranking all 30 starting centers for 2018-19

9. DeAndre Jordan, Dallas Mavericks

His best days are probably behind him now, but DeAndre Jordan should be a breath of fresh air for the Dallas Mavericks — even if his arrival comes a few years later than expected.

With Dennis Smith Jr. and Luka Doncic operating in the backcourt, the rim-running Jordan represents an ideal pick-and-roll partner. He’ll lock things down in the paint, suck defenses into the paint when he darts to the basket, and should help the Mavs be more competitive overall in 2018-19.

Dallas might not be a playoff team just yet, but DJ is a great fit for this up-and-coming group. His arrival might push Dirk Nowitzki to the bench, but that’s probably for the best for everyone involved at this point. Jordan’s prime is behind him, but the 30-year-old will still be put to good use under Rick Carlisle.