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Starting Center On Every NBA Team For 2025-26 Season

We’ve gone up the ladder, from the point guards, through the shooting guards, the small forwards, and the starting power forwards. Now, it’s time to close this series the way every great lineup is anchored: with the centers.

The big men may not dominate headlines like they once did in the days of Shaquille O'Neal or Hakeem Olajuwon, but don’t be fooled, today’s NBA centers are more important than ever, as we have seen in four straight seasons with MVP winners Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid, taking over.

Let’s dive into the last, but by no means least, piece of the starting five puzzle for the 2025-26 season.

Atlanta Hawks - Kristaps Porzingis

Apr 8, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Boston Celtics center Kristaps Porzingis (8) reacts during the second half against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 19.5 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 2.1 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG

Atlanta took a big swing by bringing in Kristaps Porzingis this offseason, and while his health has always been the question mark, there’s no denying the impact he has when he’s on the floor. Averaging nearly 20 points with elite rim protection, Porzingis gives the Hawks a unique stretch-five who opens space for Trae Young’s pick-and-roll game.

His length alters shots on defense, and if he stays healthy, Atlanta’s offense will flow smoother than it has in years. Hopefully, the big man can remain healthy because he could be a difference-maker for a talented playoff team in 2025-26.

Boston Celtics - Neemias Queta

Feb 6, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88) makes the basket against the Dallas Mavericks in the second half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88) makes the basket against the Dallas Mavericks.

Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 5.0 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 0.7 APG, 0.3 SPG, 0.7 BPG

With Kristaps Porzingis gone, Neemias Queta will need to carve out a starting role in Boston. His numbers don’t pop, but he provides size, rebounding, and rim protection on a team that’s loaded with scoring elsewhere.

The Celtics don’t need him to be a star in a rebuilding season, just to do the dirty work and keep the paint secure, which he’s shown he can handle in extended minutes. Queta will likely hold it down as much as possible as the team looks to at least get into the playoffs next year.

Brooklyn Nets - Nic Claxton

Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton (33) at Barclays Center.

Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 10.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 2.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Nic Claxton is one of the league’s more underrated centers, anchoring Brooklyn’s defense with shot-blocking and switchability, despite the team not being very good. While his scoring is modest, his rebounding and rim protection give the Nets a defensive identity.

He’s also improved as a passer out of short rolls, making him a nice fit with the team’s rebuilding (and tanking) core. It remains to be seen if the Nets end up moving Claxton this summer or decide to keep the 26-year-old on the team moving forward.

Charlotte Hornets - Moussa Diabate

Apr 13, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Moussa Diabate (14) shoots during the second half against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images

Charlotte Hornets forward Moussa Diabate (14) shoots during the second half against the Boston Celtics.

Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 5.7 PPG, 6.2 RPG, 0.8 APG, 0.6 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Charlotte has leaned into youth over the past few seasons, and Moussa Diabate’s energy and hustle have earned him the starting job after the trade of Mark Williams. He’s raw offensively, but his rebounding and defensive activity bring value to a roster that’s still finding its identity.

If his offensive polish develops, the Hornets might have a gem in their frontcourt rotation. Otherwise, Diabate will just be a temporary fix as the team still decides whether they want to build a playoff team around LaMelo Ball or just tank another season.

Chicago Bulls - Nikola Vucevic

Dec 6, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) passes the ball against the Indiana Pacers during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 18.5 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Nikola Vucevic continues to be one of the league’s most reliable bigs, still averaging a double-double in year 14. His ability to stretch the floor with shooting and facilitate from the elbow keeps Chicago’s offense somewhat afloat.

While his defense and athleticism has slipped with age, his experience and consistency make him indispensable to a Bulls team trying to stay competitive in an open Eastern Conference. Still, we don't think Vucevic should be on the Bulls because the team should rebuild as soon as possible.

Cleveland Cavaliers - Jarrett Allen

Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) dribbles the ball in the game against the Atlanta Hawks during the fourth quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images

Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 13.5 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 1.9 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Jarrett Allen is the Cavaliers’ defensive anchor alongside Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley, cleaning the glass and protecting the rim at a high level. Though his offensive role is limited, he excels as a lob threat next to Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell.

With Mobley next to him, Cleveland boasts one of the league’s most versatile defensive frontcourts. Hopefully, Allen can overcome the underrated player stigma and put up stronger numbers on both ends of the court next season.

Dallas Mavericks - Dereck Lively II

Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) reacts after suffering a possible leg injury during the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets at the American Airlines Center.

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 8.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.6 BPG

The Dallas Mavericks struck gold with Dereck Lively II, who has quickly become an elite rim protector and rebounder. His offensive numbers aren’t gaudy, but his ability to finish lobs from stars such as Kyrie Irving makes him invaluable.

As his game expands, Dallas looks set at center for the next decade. Hopefully, Lively II can be a part of a playoff team in 2025-26 to continue earning valuable experience in the paint. He got it during the 2024 Finals run, and we want to see him continue getting better.

Denver Nuggets - Nikola Jokic

Los Angeles, California, USA; Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) dribbles the ball during the first quarter against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 29.6 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 10.2 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Three-time MVP and the best player in the world, Nikola Jokic is still the gold standard at center, posting video-game numbers while orchestrating Denver’s entire offense. With around 30 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists a night, he’s the most dominant stat-sheet-stuffing big man since Wilt Chamberlain and Shaquille O'Neal.

As long as Jokic is in Denver, the Nuggets are championship contenders and that puts him first as the best center in the world. The Serbian has reinforcements coming his way next season and if he wins another championship, Jokic could climb the all-time ladder.

Detroit Pistons - Jalen Duren

Mar 30, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) celebrates his dunk against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 11.8 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Jalen Duren is developing into one of the league’s most physical centers, pairing double-digit rebounds with solid rim protection. His passing has taken a leap, showing he can be more than just a lob finisher and that could elevate the team's playoff chances next year.

As the Pistons build around Cade Cunningham, Duren looks like the long-term anchor in the middle. We love the progress Duren has shown on both ends of the court and he could have a major career year in 2025-26 if he stays healthy.

Golden State Warriors - Quinten Post

May 2, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors center Quinten Post (21) dribbles past Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson (1) in the third quarter of game six of the first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Golden State Warriors center Quinten Post (21) dribbles past Houston Rockets forward Amen Thompson (1).

Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 8.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 1.3 APG, 0.4 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Golden State’s youth movement (considering they let Kevon Looney walk in free agency) will likely continue with Quinten Post stepping into the starting lineup. While raw, he brings floor spacing and flashes of offensive skill at the five spot.

He’s still adjusting to the NBA’s speed as a starter for a playoff team, but his shooting gives the Warriors an intriguing stretch-big option in their evolving system. We anticipate Post getting better on both ends of the court, but the Warriors might want to make a move for an elite-level center to reach a different level with their championship window closing.

Houston Rockets - Alperen Sengun

Feb 8, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets center Alperen Sengun (28) in action during the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Houston Rockets at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 19.1 PPG, 10.3 RPG, 4.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.8 BPG

Alperen Sengun has blossomed into Houston’s offensive hub in the post, using his footwork and passing to punish defenses. Averaging nearly 20 and 10, he’s drawn comparisons to Jokic for his creativity with the ball.

While his defense remains a question mark and he needs a few more years to learn what move is best depending on the defensive situation, Sengun’s offensive brilliance makes him the centerpiece of the Rockets’ paint. With Kevin Durant by his side, Sengun could take another leap in 2025-26.

Indiana Pacers - Isaiah Jackson

Oct 25, 2024; New York, New York, USA; Indiana Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson (22) controls the ball against New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 7.0 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.6 BPG

Isaiah Jackson isn’t the flashiest starter, but his rim protection and athleticism keep him valuable in Indiana’s rotation. He thrives as a shot-blocker and lob threat, meaning he will likely hold down the fort with Myles Turner gone in free agency.

If Jackson adds strength and consistency, he could solidify himself as more than just a stopgap option. The Pacers might be dealing with a gap season as Tyrese Haliburton recovers from an Achilles injury, so there could be changes in the paint at any point in 2025-26.

Los Angeles Clippers - Ivica Zubac

Apr 13, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) rebounds the ball against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) rebounds the ball against the Golden State Warriors.

Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 16.8 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 2.7 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Ivica Zubac remains steady as one of the league’s most dependable big men and he had a career year in 2024-25 as a fringe All-Star. His rebounding and physical post presence give the Los Angeles Clippers a traditional center in a league that often trends smaller.

Averaging nearly 17 and 13, Zubac’s production speaks for itself, he’s the backbone of L.A.’s frontcourt. Hopefully, with new faces such as Bradley Beal and John Collins coming on board, Zubac's impact can lead to more than just a first-round exit in the postseason.

Los Angeles Lakers - Deandre Ayton

Feb 1, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2, left) shoots the ball over Phoenix Suns center Nick Richards (2) during the second half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 14.4 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 1.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.0 BPG

Deandre Ayton hopes to find a fresh start in L.A., bringing size and rebounding stability to the Los Angeles Lakers. While his offensive assertiveness has always been a question, his double-double production remains steady.

If he buys into a defensive-minded role next to Luka Doncic and LeBron James, Ayton could finally unlock his potential. However, Ayton needs to make sure his motor will run high all season long and into the playoffs, because he is at risk of struggling to find a new NBA home if he doesn't succeed in Los Angeles.

Memphis Grizzlies - Zach Edey

Dec 26, 2024; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey (14) and Toronto Raptors forward Jonathan Mogbo (2) battle for a rebound during the third quarter at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 9.2 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 1.0 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.3 BPG

The Memphis Grizzlies’ gamble on Zach Edey has paid off, with the 7’4” rookie holding his own as a starter last season. His size clogs the paint defensively, and his rebounding presence is immediate alongside Jaren Jackson Jr.

While still limited offensively, his ability to protect the rim makes him a foundational piece for Memphis’ future. The Grizzlies have decided to retool around Ja Morant and Jackson Jr, so hopefully, Edey can make a difference for them in 2025-26.

Miami Heat - Kel'el Ware

Apr 26, 2025; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat center Kel'el Ware (7) signals after scoring against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first quarter during game three for the first round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 9.3 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 0.9 APG, 0.6 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Miami will likely trust Kel’el Ware with the starting role, and his energy might fit right into Heat Culture. He’s mobile, blocks shots, and runs the floor hard, giving the Heat a versatile defensive presence as the team looks to get back into playoff contention.

Ware's offense is still developing, but with Bam Adebayo sliding to power forward at times, he gives Miami a long-term option at center if he can continue showing growth on both ends of the court. The next step for Ware is to learn from Bam how to be an impact defender as consistently as possible.

Milwaukee Bucks - Myles Turner

Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) walks downcourt during the third quarter against the New York Knicks during game three of the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.

Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 15.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 1.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 2.0 BPG

Myles Turner is one of the league’s best rim protectors and he hopes to bring that elite ability to anchor Milwaukee’s defense while spacing the floor on offense. His 2.0 blocks per game remain elite, and his three-point shooting makes him a perfect fit next to Giannis.

The Pacers might regret letting Turner walk because it will be hard to replace a two-way center who can do the things their former starter can do. With the Bucks, Turner hopes to take on a bigger offensive role beyond spotting up for threes and showcase more of his talents.

Minnesota Timberwolves - Rudy Gobert

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (27) looks on against the Philadelphia 76ers in the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 12.0 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.4 BPG

A four-time DPOY winner and one of the greatest defenders of his era, Rudy Gobert is still swatting shots and dominating the glass. While his offensive role is limited, for obvious reasons, his impact on defense is undeniable, keeping Minnesota among the league’s best teams defensively.

At 33, Gobert might start showing signs of slowing down, but we don't expect too much of a dropoff. The Frenchman is often criticized for being too soft down low, but he can still stifle the opposition when they are in the paint enough for him to hold down the starting spot.

New Orleans Pelicans - Derik Queen

Mar 27, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Maryland Terrapins center Derik Queen (25) dribbles down court past Florida Gators center Rueben Chinyelu (9) during the second half during a West Regional semifinal of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: N/A

Rookie Derik Queen steps in as New Orleans’ starting center, and while he’s unproven at the NBA level, his college dominance hints at potential. He’s skilled offensively with soft hands and solid vision, but he’ll need to prove he can handle NBA physicality.

For now, the Pelicans are betting on upside, and the potential for Zion Williamson and Queen to hold down the frontcourt. Queen has a lot to prove still and even his partner Zion has to prove he can stay healthy, so the Pelicans are playing the hopeful game in 2025-26.

New York Knicks - Karl-Anthony Towns

Apr 27, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) hits a three point basket late in the fourth quarter of game four of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs against the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 24.4 PPG, 12.8 RPG, 3.1 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Karl-Anthony Towns is one of the best centers in the NBA and with New York, his offensive firepower will been crucial as the team looks to achieve their championship goals. Nearly 25 points and 13 rebounds per game showcase his dominance, while his shooting stretches defenses.

If his defense holds up, KAT could be the key to the Knicks’ deep playoff push and possibly, an NBA championship. We know what to expect from Towns in terms of shooting at least 40% from deep and being an exceptional athlete, but adding some defensive resistance could be the difference for the team.

Oklahoma City Thunder - Isaiah Hartenstein

Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) looks to pass the ball against the Orlando Magic in the fourth quarter at Kia Center.

Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 11.2 PPG, 10.7 RPG, 3.8 APG, 0.8 SPG, 1.1 BPG

Isaiah Hartenstein was a revelation for OKC, as he gave them toughness, rebounding, and underrated passing from the five. Sam Presti knew that Chet Holmgren needed help on the block and Hartenstein was the difference in many playoff games with his strength and presence.

He’s not a star, but his motor and physicality perfectly complement the Thunder’s young core. With Holmgren sliding to power forward, Hartenstein balances the lineup exceptionally well, and we anticpate seeing him holding down the center spot for most of the 2025-26 campaign.

Orlando Magic - Wendell Carter Jr.

Apr 23, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. (34) reacts after making a basket with a foul against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter of game two of the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. (34) reacts after making a basket with a foul against the Boston Celtics.

2024-25 Averages: 9.1 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Wendell Carter Jr. continues to bring steady production for Orlando, even if his numbers don’t jump off the page. He’s a strong rebounder and positional defender who does the little things that allow Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero to shine.

While not flashy, he’s a reliable anchor for an excellent defensive team. The Magic have some solid go-to options and play on the perimeter, so Carter Jr doesn't have to play beyond his capabilities. The center can score inside so he should focus on that, but the primary objective would be to increase his rebounding numbers.

Philadelphia 76ers - Joel Embiid

Feb 20, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) looks on during the third quarter against the Boston Celtics at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 23.8 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 4.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.9 BPG

Joel Embiid is still the most dominant scoring big man alive, capable of dropping 30 on any given night. Unforunately, we might not see the former MVP dominate the oppositon at the center position at his highest level again.

Injuries remain the concern, but when he’s healthy, Embiid tilts the floor with his post dominance, midrange shooting, and rim protection. Philly’s title hopes will always ride on his health and production, and we will pray Embiid can stay healthy and play more than 30 games.

Phoenix Suns - Mark Williams

Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams (5) rebounds in the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 15.3 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 2.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Mark Williams might be Phoenix's defensive anchor, as he aims to finally solve their center problem. With a double-double average and strong rim protection, he provides the balance Devin Booker and Jalen Green need around them since they are limited in terms of stature.

Williams' improvement offensively makes him one of the Suns’ most important pieces going forward, espcially since the franchise gave up two first-round picks for him. The big man put up a solid double-double last season and if he puts up similar numbers in 2025-26, he could be an impact player.

Portland Trail Blazers - Donovan Clingan

Apr 11, 2025; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) scores a basket during the second half against the Golden State Warriors at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) scores a basket during the second half against the Golden State Warriors.

Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 6.5 PPG, 7.9 RPG, 1.1 APG, 0.5 SPG, 1.6 BPG

Upcoming and second-year big man Donovan Clingan is already making his mark with elite shot-blocking and rebounding instincts. His offensive game is still raw, but his defensive presence alone changes Portland’s outlook moving forward.

If his offense develops, the Trail Blazers could have their franchise center, especially since they gave up on Deandre Ayton this offseason. The Blazers will look forward to a returning Damian Lillard after the 2025-26 campaign and perhaps, they could have a talented two-way Clingan ready to compete.

Sacramento Kings - Domantas Sabonis

Apr 4, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Domantas Sabonis (11) handles the ball against the Charlotte Hornets during the second quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 19.1 PPG, 13.9 RPG, 6.0 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Domantas Sabonis remains a triple-double threat every night, orchestrating Sacramento’s offense through his passing and relentless rebounding. His 14 boards a night make him one of the league’s top glass cleaners, while his physicality sets the tone for the Kings.

Few centers mean more to their team’s identity, even if the roster around him isn't the most impressive right now. Sabonis does a lot for the Kings and he has to be recongized as one of the best all-around players in the NBA, even if he goes unnoticed as a three-time All-Star.

San Antonio Spurs - Victor Wembanyama

Jan 29, 2025; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama (1) dribbles the ball up in the second half against the LA Clippers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Daniel Dunn-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 24.3 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 3.7 APG, 1.1 SPG, 3.8 BPG

Victor Wembanyama will be must-see TV in 2025-26, assuming he is healthy, after putting up staggering numbers in just his second season. Nearly 25 points, 11 rebounds, and almost 4 blocks per game put him in the DPOY conversations already.

The San Antonio Spurs have their franchise cornerstone, and he’s already dominating both ends of the floor. We hope Wemby can stay healthy, overcome the blood clots that were found in his shoulder, and get on the court because we could be looking at an MVP candidate already.

Toronto Raptors - Jakob Poeltl

Jan 25, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl (19) dribbles guarded by Atlanta Hawks guard Bogdan Bogdanovic (13) during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 14.5 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Jakob Poeltl gives Toronto an impressive presence (7'0", 245 lbs) at center, with strong rebounding, rim protection, and efficient scoring inside. He’s never flashy, but his defense and fundamentals make him a valuable piece.

In a Raptors lineup that should be more competitive next season, Poeltl provides veteran steadiness. The big man had the best season of his career in 2024-25, even nailing 62.7% from the field, so we anticipate similar numbers as he holds down the paint.

Utah Jazz - Walker Kessler

Jan 30, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) shoots an open jump shot during the first quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 11.1 PPG, 12.2 RPG, 1.7 APG, 0.6 SPG, 2.4 BPG

Walker Kessler has cemented himself as one of the NBA’s premier defensive anchors, and his 2024-25 campaign showed why the Jazz view him as a franchise cornerstone. Averaging over 12 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game, Kessler protects the paint with a dominance that overshadows his limited offensive game.

The Jazz are leaning heavily into a rebuild, and Kessler’s growth is central to their defensive identity. If he continues to improve as a passer and adds a more reliable mid-range jumper, Kessler has the potential to graduate from elite role player to true All-Star.

Washington Wizards - Alex Sarr

Apr 11, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic (9) defends Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr (20) during the first quarter at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Nikola Vucevic (9) defends Washington Wizards forward Alex Sarr (20) during the first quarter.

Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

2024-25 Averages: 13.0 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 2.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.5 BPG

The Washington Wizards are handing the keys to their rebuild to center Alex Sarr, and the rookie big man has already shown flashes of two-way potential. At 7’1” with elite mobility, Sarr offers a modern twist on the traditional center, combining rim protection (1.5 blocks per game) with the ability to switch onto guards in space.

His 13 points and 6.5 rebounds per game as a rookie are solid, but what’s most encouraging for Washington is his poise and versatility since he looks like a player who’s only scratching the surface. As his frame fills out and his offensive confidence grows, the Wizards might have landed the franchise center they’ve been searching for since the early 2000s.

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