When talking about the best passing big men in the NBA, one cannot ignore the sheer talent and vision these players bring to the game. For instance, Nikola Jokic stands out immediately. With an average of nearly 8 assists per game, Jokic exemplifies everything you want in a passing big man. In the modern NBA, where positions are increasingly becoming irrelevant, Jokic’s playmaking abilities are game-changing. His sense of timing and precision make him an invaluable asset for the Denver Nuggets. It’s not just his assist numbers; it’s how he effortlessly orchestrates the offense, opening up lanes and creating scoring opportunities for teammates.
But Jokic isn’t alone. Consider Draymond Green, who, despite being listed as a forward, often plays the role of a point guard in the Golden State Warriors’ offense. Draymond’s vision and basketball IQ are through the roof. Averaging around 6 assists per game, Green consistently proves that size doesn’t limit passing ability. His defensive acumen, combined with his offensive capabilities, makes him a unique specimen in today’s league. It’s also noteworthy that Green’s passing stats often spike during high-stakes games, indicating his ability to thrive under pressure.
Let’s not forget Marc Gasol, another maestro in the art of big man passing. Though Marc has transitioned into the later stages of his career, his passing skill set hasn’t diminished. During his time with the Toronto Raptors and the Memphis Grizzlies, Gasol’s assist rate hovered around 4 assists per game. His ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions sets him apart. It’s not just the volume of assists but the type of passes—laser-focused, crisp, and strategic.
Here’s where it gets interesting: the history of big men as exceptional passers isn’t just a modern phenomenon. Look at legends like Bill Walton, whose impact on the game was revolutionary during his era in the 1970s. Walton’s vision and passing proficiency played a significant role in the Portland Trail Blazers’ championship run in 1977. Walton, often dubbed one of the greatest passing big men ever, averaged 3.4 assists over his career, which was remarkable for a center during that period. How did he do it? His ability to find open shooters and cutters from both the high post and the low post was unparalleled.
A more contemporary example would be Pau Gasol, who played a crucial role in the Lakers’ back-to-back championships in 2009 and 2010. Pau averaged over 3 assists per game during his prime years, and his on-court chemistry with Kobe Bryant was undeniable. Pau’s versatility enabled him to serve as a fulcrum in the offense, allowing for a more fluid and dynamic game plan. Watching Gasol operate from the high post was akin to watching a conductor lead an orchestra, every pass deliberate and every move calculated.
Kevin Garnett, known primarily for his defensive prowess and unmatched intensity, also had a knack for distributing the ball. With an average of around 4 assists per game for most of his career, Garnett showed that big men could facilitate just as well as any point guard. His transition game was particularly strong, often grabbing rebounds and pushing the ball up the court, leading to easy baskets. It’s worth noting that during his MVP season in 2004, KG averaged a career-high 5 assists per game, showcasing his all-around game.
One cannot discuss passing big men without mentioning Chris Webber. With career averages hovering close to 4 assists per game, Webber was a quintessential point forward before the term became commonplace. His tenure with the Sacramento Kings highlighted his brilliant playmaking ability, contributing to one of the most entertaining offenses in NBA history. Webber’s court vision allowed him to make some incredibly creative passes, often through tight windows, resulting in easy scores for his teammates.
Al Horford might be the most underrated passer in this category. With a career average of 3.3 assists per game, Horford’s steady and composed playmaking is often overlooked. During his stint with the Boston Celtics, Horford’s passing from the center position added a new dimension to their offense. His ability to handle the ball and find open shooters was crucial for spacing, especially in Brad Stevens’ system that relies heavily on ball movement.
So, why do these big men excel in passing? It’s a combination of factors. Their height allows them to see over defenses better than guards can. They often operate from the high post or low post, areas of the court that naturally open up different angles for passing. The position demands a high basketball IQ, which these players possess in spades. Moreover, being good passers makes them double threats on the floor; defenders can’t solely focus on their scoring.
And let’s not forget the psychological aspect. Being a big man passer often involves selflessness, a trait that sometimes gets overshadowed in professional sports. The ability to put team’s success over individual glory can’t be understated. Vision and anticipation also play a huge role, qualities often honed over years of rigorous training and experience.
Finally, this brings us to the rising star Bam Adebayo, who epitomizes the modern passing big man. Averaging nearly 5 assists per game, Bam provides an incredible boost to the Miami Heat’s offense. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, making him an invaluable member of the team. In high-stress situations, often seen during playoff games, Bam’s ability to pass out of double teams and execute precise pick-and-roll plays has been crucial for Miami’s success.
When it comes to recognizing exceptional big men with passing skills, it’s clear that these players have redefined what it means to contribute in the NBA. Their blend of size, vision, and basketball IQ makes for a truly unique skill set that aligns perfectly with the philosophy of arena plus.