2026-27 Fantasy Basketball Center Preview: Sleepers and Breakout Candidates

The center position is considered deeper than in previous years, though elite players like Nikola Jokić and Victor Wembanyama still offer top-tier value. Jokić remains a reliable option after participating in 65 games last season, while Wembanyama is recognized as a generational talent with significant potential.

Following these top two, the landscape of the center position has evolved. Alperen Sengun stands out as a point-center, coming off career highs in assists, blocks, and three-point shooting. Chet Holmgren combines three-point shooting with shot-blocking capabilities uniquely, while Karl-Anthony Towns remains a multi-category contributor. The emergence of several mid-tier centers capable of exceeding traditional double-double performances illustrates the shifting dynamics of the position.

Injury concerns are prevalent among centers, making it an unavoidable topic. Joel Embiid, for example, has participated in only 57 of 164 regular-season games over the past two seasons. Other centers like Walker Kessler and Mark Williams have also faced significant injury challenges, impacting their availability and draft strategy. Because missed games can heavily affect crucial categories such as rebounds, blocks, and field-goal percentage, strong backup centers become increasingly valuable.

In terms of draft strategy, if you miss out on Wembanyama or Jokić, it's advisable to wait on center selections—though not for too long. A rush on centers can occur suddenly, and relying on power forwards might not suffice. The conventional strategy emphasizes size, speed, and opportunity, occasionally favoring big men over guards.

Among sleepers, Nic Claxton from the Chicago Bulls is noteworthy. Despite a solid season averaging 11.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks on 57% shooting, his hamstring injury could hinder his start, and competition from Jalen Smith and rookie Caleb Wilson complicates his situation.

Day’Ron Sharpe of the Brooklyn Nets is expected to benefit from Claxton’s trade, stepping into a starting role. Though he averaged 8.4 points and 6.6 rebounds in limited minutes, his historical offensive rebounding rate is the highest in NBA history, indicating significant potential if he secures starter minutes.

For breakout candidates, Walker Kessler of the Los Angeles Lakers is highlighted. After recovering from shoulder surgery, Kessler averaged 14.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks on 70% shooting in just five games last season, suggesting a promising future, especially with the addition of Luka Dončić.

Kel’el Ware from the Milwaukee Bucks is also in the mix. At 22 years old, Ware is a 7-footer with impressive per-minute production and could have substantial upside if he can maintain consistent effort.

Finally, Donovan Clingan, expected to take on a starting role with the Trail Blazers, averaged 12.1 points and 11.6 rebounds last season. This season is anticipated to mark his ascent as a top-tier center, with the potential for consistent double-doubles.