Golden State Warriors: Ranking 6 best centers to target in FA

By Tony Pesta | Nov 13, 2020

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 21: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors celebrates after making a basket against the Brooklyn Nets during the second half in Game Three of the first round of the 2020 NBA Playoffs at The Field House at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 21, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kim Klement-Pool/Getty Images) /

2 of 7

Golden State Warrior. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /

6. Nerlens Noel

The Oklahoma City Thunder surprised everybody by reaching the postseason last year. How much of an impact did Nerlens Noel have on their success?

Pros

Entering the NBA, Noel was always going to be a great rim protector. Standing at 6’10” and boasting a 7’4″ wingspan – Noel is able to use his size to stop opponents from converting buckets in the paint.

Last season, Noel averaged 7.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game in fewer than 20 minutes of playing time. You know exactly what you’re going to get from Noel when he hits the floor.

Cons

Unfortunately, the reason he doesn’t receive extra minutes because of his limited playstyle. Noel isn’t fast enough to defend the perimeter and his lack of 3-point shooting holds him back from being a positive contributor on offense.

It would be tough to trust Noel to be on the court in the playoffs when the game slows down and the need for stretch bigs increases. Still, he could be a positive factor if the Dubs need additional rim protection.

Home/Warriors Free Agency