Long-range shooters and athletic wingers have dominated the NBA for decades, but players like Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, and Joel Embiid are bringing back the ’70s big-men era. Jokic and Embiid have won the last four MVPs and Wembanyama finished 2024 as the Rookie of the Year. Additionally, the NBA has plenty of other skilled centers making headlines along the three.
From Jokic and Embiid to Karl-Antony Towns and Anthony Davis, here are the five best centers spearheading the 2025 NBA campaign for different teams.
Nikola Jokic – Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic’s meteoric rise to stardom is remarkable since joining the Nuggets as the 41st overall NBA pick in 2014. While he wasn’t expected to become a dominant force at the center, his basketball IQ, skills, and vision have made him a game-changer for Denver. His ability to shoot, pass, and orchestrate sophisticated offenses with his size and height has also made him an anomaly in the league.
Whether it’s a no-look assist, a full-court pass, or squeezing through the opponent’s defense, Jokic’s performance has redefined the center position for big men. His unmatched playmaking in clutch moments also makes him an MVP candidate this season and punters can bet on him winning the title with the DraftKings Sportsbook. DraftKings gives you a $200 welcome bonus with their new player promo code on SportyTrader.
Victor Wembanyama – San Antonio Spurs
Coming into the league, Victor Wembanyama was touted as the next face of the NBA and the greatest defender since LeBron James. After a remarkable rookie campaign where he recorded 315 points, 111 rebounds, and 42 three-pointers, Wembanyama is elevating his game in his sophomore year. Everything is clicking for the all-round performer and his playmaking skills are making the Spurs NBA championship contenders this season.
Joel Embiid – Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers’ inconsistencies have put their playoff chances at risk, despite Joel Embiid playing remarkably in 2025. Embiid struggled with injuries over the last six months but remains an incredible scorer and rim protector. The 30-year-old guard knows how to flop and use his strength or size where necessary, which will make MVP discussions interesting this season.
Karl-Anthony Towns – New York Knicks
Karl-Anthony Towns is a solid passer for the New York Knicks and a self-proclaimed best basketball shooter. Towns struggled with his defensive awareness last season, but his stretching ability and scoring versatility at an impressive shooting range have made him a valuable asset for the Knicks. The 29-year-old moved to New York as an unproven forward and blossomed into the most efficient shooter beyond the arc.
Antony Davis – LA Lakers
Anthony Davis ranks as one of the NBA’s most revered NBA defenders when healthy. His size, athleticism, and versatility guarding the perimeter helped him finish fourth in 2024 with 2.3 blocks per match, and started 2025 with impressive form. Davis shows commitment to the Lakers’ success this season and delivered a landmark 38 points over the Portland Trail Blazers early in January.
