Top 10 NBA centers heading into the 2025–26 season

October 18, 2025 Kris Isaksen

With just days before tip-off, the center position is once again front and center in the NBA’s title race. From rising stars to established legends, here are the 10 best big men expected to make the biggest impact this season — ranked from 10 to 1.

10. Isaiah Hartenstein – OKC’s underrated engine

After signing a three-year, $87 million deal with the Thunder, Isaiah Hartenstein fit in seamlessly and quickly became a key piece for a rising Western Conference power. He averaged a double-double last season and stood out as both a rim protector and high-IQ passer. At just 27, he may be the glue guy holding together what could become the NBA’s next dynasty.

9. Myles Turner – fresh start in Milwaukee

A longtime presence in Indiana, Myles Turner enters a new era with the Bucks after two strong seasons under Rick Carlisle. As he steps into Brook Lopez’s role, Turner will bring his elite shot-blocking and floor-spacing to a roster hoping to stay in title contention. The pressure is on, but Turner has the tools to thrive in this new environment.

8. Ivica Zubac – Clippers’ quiet cornerstone

Ivica Zubac put together a career-best season just when many were writing the Clippers off. The veteran big man posted 16.8 points and 12.6 rebounds per game while anchoring the defense for a playoff team that had lost Paul George. His continued growth is critical to keeping LA in the postseason conversation.

7. Jarrett Allen – Cleveland’s consistent force

Jarrett Allen has been rock solid for a Cavaliers squad that notched 64 wins last season. Shooting a league-leading 70.5% from the floor, Allen was highly efficient on offense and continued to anchor the paint defensively. If Cleveland wants to make its first Finals appearance since 2018, Allen’s play will be pivotal.

6. Bam Adebayo – still Miami’s defensive pillar

By his standards, Bam Adebayo struggled last season, particularly after taking on a bigger offensive load post-Butler. Despite a dip in production, he remains an elite defender and a foundational piece in Erik Spoelstra’s system. The Heat may be entering a rebuild, but Bam’s two-way talent will keep them competitive if he bounces back.

5. Domantas Sabonis – a stat machine in Sacramento

While the Kings fell short of expectations and missed the playoffs, Sabonis once again led the league in rebounds and produced near All-Star numbers. He averaged 19.1 points, 13.9 boards, and 6 assists per game, showing his usual all-around impact. Sacramento may have made changes, but Sabonis remains one of the most skilled centers in the league.

4. Alperen Sengun – Houston’s rising star

Alperen Sengun is coming off his first All-Star season and led the young Rockets to the No. 2 seed in the West. Averaging over 19 points, 10 rebounds, and nearly 5 assists, he was the focal point on both ends before Kevin Durant’s arrival. With less offensive burden now, Sengun can continue to evolve into one of the league’s most dynamic bigs.

3. Joel Embiid – still a dominant presence

Injuries limited Joel Embiid to just 19 games last season, and his numbers dipped across the board. Still, when healthy, he’s one of the most unstoppable forces in the league and a game-changer on both ends. If he can stay on the court for 50+ games, the 76ers could once again challenge in the East.

2. Victor Wembanyama – the future is now

Even after missing last season due to a shoulder issue, Victor Wembanyama is already considered an MVP candidate entering year three. At 7'4", with elite shot-blocking and fluid offensive skills, he’s a nightmare matchup and the cornerstone of the Spurs’ rebuild. If he plays at least 65 games, he’s a lock for DPOY and could become the league’s next face.

1. Nikola Jokic – still the best in the world

Nikola Jokic continues to set the standard for modern centers. Nearly winning a fourth MVP last season after averaging a triple-double, he remains the engine of a Nuggets team that’s reloaded for another title run. As long as he’s healthy, Jokic will be at the heart of any championship conversation.