5. Modern NBA
The notion that the center position is dead has been greatly exaggerated by those in love with flashy basketball. The reality of the situation is, teams cannot win championships without consistency at the 5.
Here’s the thing: paying a center massive amounts of money isn’t exactly necessary in the modern NBA.
If there’s a player whom one believes can truly elevate an organization, then they should be signed at any cost. It’s difficult to find championship-caliber stars, but when one exists, they’re absolutely worth investing in.
Unless Phil Jackson believes that free agent exists for the New York Knicks in 2016, then paying big money would border on illogical.
There are a number of talented centers on the open market, but all come with their share of red flags. For some, it’s a history of injuries that are beginning to catch up with them; for others, it’s merely a small sample size.
The center position is making a powerful comeback, but by the time that movement fully arrives, Kristaps Porzingis will be playing the 5.
Next: The Options