When you look at the NBA, the significance of having dominant big men on the court cannot be overstated. Since the game's inception, taller players traditionally control the paint, defend the rim, and provide essential scoring and rebounding. Among the current crop, a few names stand out due to their impact on the game. Let's dive into the top NBA big men, exploring their prowess through quantifiable metrics, specialized terminology, and some illustrative examples.
Joel Embiid, the towering center for the Philadelphia 76ers, exemplifies what it means to be a modern NBA big man. Standing 7 feet tall and weighing 280 pounds, Embiid uses his size and skill to dominate both ends of the court. Last season, he averaged an impressive 30.6 points per game and led the league in scoring. This isn't just a fluke; Embiid has consistently been one of the top scorers for several seasons, making him a perennial MVP candidate. His Player Efficiency Rating (PER) for the 2022-2023 season was 31.2, solidifying his status as one of the most efficient players in the league.
Another giant in today’s game is Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets. Known for his exceptional passing and court vision, Jokić redefined what it means to be a center. Last season, Jokić averaged 9.8 assists per game, a stat that is more akin to elite point guards than centers. In fact, Jokić's total of 679 assists was the highest among all centers in NBA history, earning him the nickname “The Joker” for his ability to make plays that leave opponents astonished. His versatility was crucial for the Nuggets' run to the Western Conference Finals.
Then there's Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers. What sets AD apart is his defensive prowess coupled with offensive versatility. Davis averaged 2.3 blocks per game, which not only ranks high among his peers but also significantly contributes to the Lakers' defensive efficiency. With a wingspan of 7'6", his shot-blocking ability forces opposing guards to think twice before driving to the hoop. Additionally, Davis put up 22.5 points per game last season and showed his proficiency in both mid-range shooting and finishing around the basket.
Not to be overlooked, Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to be a force of nature for the Milwaukee Bucks. Known as “The Greek Freak” for his unparalleled athleticism and agility, Giannis averaged 28.1 points and 11 rebounds per game. His impact isn't relegated to just his statistical contributions; he led the Bucks to their first NBA Championship in 50 years, proving that his dominance extends beyond individual accolades. His speed and agility at 6'11" and 242 pounds make him a unique threat on both ends of the court.
Now let's talk about Rudy Gobert, who might not produce eye-popping scoring numbers but is arguably the best defensive big man in the league. Gobert, who plays for the Utah Jazz, averaged 2.1 blocks and led the league in defensive rating at 101.2. His rim protection alone makes opponents think twice before entering the paint. Gobert’s Defensive Win Shares (DWS) were at 4.3 for the season, a testament to his value on the defensive end.
When you factor in longevity and consistency, you can't ignore Dwight Howard. Although he's not in his prime anymore, Howard's defensive and rebounding prowess made him an essential part of rotations. During his peak with the Orlando Magic, Howard led the league in blocks and rebounds for multiple seasons, a feat only a few have accomplished. Despite being 37 years old, he still showed flashes of his former self, providing crucial support off the bench for the Los Angeles Lakers during their 2020 championship run.
Even younger talents like Deandre Ayton of the Phoenix Suns are making waves in the league. At just 24, Ayton averaged 17.2 points and 10.2 rebounds per game last season, showing promise and potential to develop into one of the league’s elite centers. His ability to efficiently finish around the rim, evidenced by his 63.4% field goal percentage, marks him as a formidable offensive player.
So, how do these players stack up against the legends of the past? Comparing them to icons like Shaquille O'Neal or Hakeem Olajuwon isn't straightforward. Shaq, for instance, averaged 23.7 points and 10.9 rebounds per game over his career and led the Lakers to three consecutive championships. Hakeem, another legend, was a defensive juggernaut, amassing 3,030 blocks throughout his career, the most in NBA history. These legends set the bar high, but when you look at the current crop, many like Embiid and Jokić are on a trajectory to reach such heights.
One can't ignore the financial aspect of these players either. With the arena plus bringing in substantial revenue from ticket sales, merchandise, and broadcasting rights, having a dominant big man becomes a lucrative investment. For example, Giannis’ presence significantly boosts the Bucks' market value, estimated at $1.9 billion. Similarly, Embiid's contributions make him a cornerstone of the 76ers' financial success, leading to higher ticket sales and merchandise revenue.
In conclusion, when analyzing the top big men in the NBA today, it's clear that efficiency, versatility, and defensive prowess are the key attributes that set them apart. Players like Embiid, Jokić, Davis, Giannis, and Gobert continue to elevate the game, combining traditional big man roles with modern basketball skills. Their contributions not only impact their teams' performance but also significantly influence the NBA's landscape, both on and off the court.