NBA Player Tiers: Ranking all 30 starting centers in 2023-24

By Cal Durrett | Oct 14, 2023

NBA Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets dribbles against Bam Adebayo #13 of the Miami Heat during the third quarter in Game Two of the 2023 NBA Finals at Ball Arena on June 04, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /

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NBA Tier 3: All-Star to borderline All-Star starting centers

12) Nikola Vucevic-Chicago Bulls
11) Jarret Allen-Cleveland Cavaliers
10) Deandre Ayton-Portland Trail Blazers
9) Rudy Gobert-Minnesota Timberwolves
8) Brook Lopez-Milwaukee Bucks
7) Myles Turner-Indiana Pacers
6) Kristaps Porzingis-Boston Celtics

Leading the pack is new Celtic Kristaps Porzingis, who had a terrific 2022–23 season for the Wizards before being acquired this summer by Boston. He is expected to give the Celtics a big frontcourt upgrade and can not only space the floor and score in the post but also protect the basket.

Speaking of rim protection, Turner, Lopez, and Gobert are often among the league leaders in blocks. However, Turner is coming off a career-high season in which he averaged a career-high 18 points on a stellar 65.1% true shooting, as well as 7.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocks.

Lopez has aged surprisingly well, considering injury issues early in his career. Ironically, he was previously known as a low-post scorer and a slow-footed defender. However, he has now become one of the best stretch fives in the NBA and a terrific shot-blocker too. He may be in for a dropoff this season, but he is still a top-10 center, even at 35. As for Gobert, he had a down season on a new team but should hopefully be able to bounce back.

Ayton will be on new team this season, while Jack is entering his fourth season with the Cavs. Allen slipped a bit last season after making the all-star team in 2021–22. Still, he managed to average approximately 14 and 10 while shooting 64% from the field, making him one of the better centers around. As for Ayton, he should prove to be a sizeable upgrade for the Blazers and will hopefully be a better fit in Portland after he wore out his welcome in Phoenix. Next up, tier 2!

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