CENTERS
Apr 9, 2014; Portland, OR, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) shoots the ball over Portland Trail Blazers center
Robin Lopez(42) during the first quarter of the game at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports
Al Jefferson– Another year goes by and another year we see Al Jefferson get snubbed from the All-Star game. Jefferson finished the season averaging 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, carrying the No 7 seeded Charlotte Bobcats to the playoffs for the first time since the 2009-10 season. Jefferson finally got some recognition after the season ended as he was named on the All-NBA Third Team, but it wasn’t enough credit for the games best offensive center, besides DeMarcus Cousins. It makes you wonder how in the world Roy Hibbert has made two all-star games and Jefferson hasn’t made one.
DeMarcus Cousins- DeMarcus Cousins, just like Jefferson, was snubbed from the all-star game but being in the Western Conference might have been the reason. Cousins was top-10 in the NBA in scoring (22.7 ppg) and rebounds (11.7 rpg). Cousins often makes headlines for his attitude and not for his great offensive ability. What goes unnoticed is Cousins ability to pass (2.9 apg) and his ability to read passes on defense (1.5 spg). Cousins had one of the best seasons in the history of the NBA for a player who didn’t make the all-star game, maybe playing on the Kings was a reason.
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Andre Drummond– While the similar DeAndre Jordan drew the headlines for his play for right reasons, Andre Drummond who had a better overall season got no love. Drummond finished second in the league in field goal percentage (62%) and rebounds (13.2), and finished 10th in blocks (1.6). Drummond has to stop making headlines for bricking free-throws, instead of his production.
Nikola Pekovic– Kevin Love might be the most dominant big in the league, but his frontcourt mate Nikola Pekovic has a big hand in that. Pekovic averaged 17.4 points and 8.7 rebounds this season. Pekovic had a stretch in which he scored at least 16 points in 21 of 22 games this season, talk about consistency!
Spencer Hawes– Spencer Hawes is one of the better passing (3 apg) and shooting centers in the NBA without a doubt. Hawes led all centers in three-point percentage (42%) and makes with 128 for the season. Hawes also averaged 8.3 rebounds. In order to take the next step as a player, Hawes must become more efficient around the basket as he shot 46% from the field.
Honorable Mention: Nikola Vucevic