NBA Player Power Rankings: Ranking The League’s Top 10 Centers

1. Dwight Howard, Los Angeles Lakers

Jan 27, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (12) controls the ball against the defense of Oklahoma City Thunder center Kendrick Perkins (5) during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Howard is the most physically intimidating player in the NBA. Remember when he stuck a sticker of his face on top of the backboard (12’6″) in the 2007 dunk contest? Yeah, I do too.

Howard is often criticized for his lack of intensity and passion when he’s playing basketball, especially in his last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, when he was ripped apart for his lackadaisical play.

It’s not often a player averages 17.1 points, 12.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.1 steals, 2.4 blocks, and gets criticized for lazy play.

Howard, despite what anybody may think of his work ethic or passion, had major back surgery in April of 2012. Include his shoulder injury during the season, and it’s miraculous that Howard still averaged the numbers he did.

Howard’s productivity falls off dramatically outside of 10 feet from the rim. At 27 years old and due to his severe lack of post moves, Howard’s reign as the best center of the league is likely coming to an end.