When we look at the regular seasons in the NBA, several centers have put up impressive numbers in terms of assists. One can’t ignore the sheer brilliance when a big man dishes out assists like a point guard. I’m talking about Nikola Jokic, who averaged 8.3 assists per game in the 2020-2021 season. It’s mind-blowing to think of a center leading his team in assists and playing such a pivotal role in their offensive success. The Denver Nuggets have benefited immensely from his playmaking ability.
Looking back, another remarkable season was by Wilt Chamberlain in 1967-1968, where he averaged 8.6 assists per game. Wilt’s numbers aren’t just staggering due to their magnitude but also because he played in an era dominated by guards when centers were primarily rebounders and scorers. The landscape of the NBA at that time was not designed to support a center who could distribute so well, making Chamberlain an undeniable anomaly.
I can’t overlook the versatility of Al Horford, particularly during his tenure with the Atlanta Hawks. In the 2016-2017 season, Horford averaged 5.0 assists per game, showcasing his ability to read defenses and make the right plays. His stats may not jump off the page like Jokic’s or Wilt’s, but within the context of modern NBA systems and pace, Horford’s contribution to team dynamics was immense.
In terms of sheer impact, one can’t leave out Bill Walton during his MVP season in 1977-1978 with the Portland Trail Blazers. Walton averaged 5.0 assists per game, making him a central figure in the Blazers’ offense. Walton’s ability to orchestrate from the post helped Portland become one of the best passing teams in the league, and it isn’t a stretch to say that his skills paved the way for future assisting centers.
And who could forget the unique skills of Arvydas Sabonis? Despite joining the NBA late in his career, Sabonis displayed dazzling passing skills. In the 1997-1998 season, he averaged 4.0 assists per game while playing for the Portland Trail Blazers. Sabonis’s vision and basketball IQ were extraordinary, making him a trailblazer—literally and figuratively—for European centers in the NBA.
Moreover, centers like Marc Gasol during his 2014-2015 campaign with the Memphis Grizzlies provided an all-around game that included 4.1 assists per game. Gasol’s ability to facilitate offense from the high post contributed significantly to Memphis’ grit-and-grind identity. His high basketball IQ allowed him to impact the game in various facets beyond traditional center responsibilities.
One recent example is Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat. In the 2019-2020 season, Bam averaged 5.1 assists per game, redefining the role of a modern center. His ability to handle the ball and make plays not only for himself but also for his teammates, at such a pace and high-stakes environment, is nothing short of impressive. Bam’s performance mirrors the evolving role of the NBA center, where versatility is paramount.
The continual evolution of the center position in the NBA has allowed these remarkable athletes to showcase a broader skill set. Nikola Jokic’s impact today, for instance, goes beyond just amazing assists. His unique ability to handle the ball and orchestrate plays aligns with the modern NBA’s penchant for versatile, multi-dimensional players. It’s players like Jokic who set the benchmark for what a center can achieve.
On a side note, this trend towards versatile centers creates a more exciting and unpredictable game. Imagine tuning in to a game expecting traditional post-ups and instead witnessing a 7-footer whipping no-look passes like a seasoned guard. It’s made possible by players like Jokic, Wilt, and Sabonis, who have continuously reshaped our expectations. If you’re into stats and exemplary performances, I’d suggest checking out more in-depth analyses on arena plus
As the game evolves, the role of these assisting centers will only continue to expand, offering fans and analysts much to discuss and marvel at. It’s their ability to adapt and influence that makes these players invaluable to their teams and the league as a whole. With so many remarkable seasons and standout performances, it’s evident that the role of a center in the NBA isn’t just limited to rebounding and scoring anymore. The evolution is truly a joy to witness.