Over the past few years, there has been a tectonic shift in the NBA. We are back in the era of the bigs. Making a return from the 1990s, three names come to mind for basketball purists – Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid. These three superstars have cemented themselves as the new-age faces of the NBA, and they have the accolades to justify their status. But in the midst of them battling for MVP each season, is there a dark horse?

In a recent podcast, a 15-year NBA veteran gave his insights into the ‘best center’ conversation. Shockingly, he felt no one from the ‘Big 3’ is at the top.

NBA veteran passes on Nikola Jokic, Antetokounmpo, and Joel Embiid

Patrick Beverley has made a reputation of being the energetic defensive irritant over his journeyman NBA career. He has had the fortune to share the stage with some of the all-time greats. Moreover, as a pesky, ferocious defender, he has had to guard some of the most elite offensive talents. He has numerous matchups with Nikola Jokic, reigning MVP Embiid, and Antetokounmpo.

Having first-hand experience of their dominance and mastery of the game, you might think he would see one of the three as the best player in the NBA. But as it turns out, he doesn’t even see them as the best for their position.

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During the recent episode of the ‘Pat Bev Pod’, the former Los Angeles Clippers guard highlighted a conversation he once had – who according to him was the best 5 man. The obvious names were present, Jokic and Embiid. Lastly, Karl-Anthony Towns was a part of the conversation.

Similar to his erratic demeanor on the NBA floor, Beverley went in an unusual direction. Admitting the shock on people’s faces, he picked KAT as the best center in the NBA.

“When it comes to like offensively gifted players… it’s KAT and it’s James Harden and I think I got KAT one… I’ve been around this m**********r.” said Beverley about his former teammate.

The 2015 number-one overall pick has a dynamic offensive skillset. Despite being his size, he is one of the most lethal perimeter threats in the NBA. On his day, KAT is ferocious, attacking the rim, shooting threes, and leaving defenses helpless. At just 27, Towns personally believes he is the best shooting big man in the history of the game. A three-point contest title validates his beliefs, and he might well be in the conversation despite only playing eight seasons so far.

The 27-year-old might not be much revered for his defense, but his peak years are yet to come. KAT has the raw talent, and the dedication to get better. While he might be as dominant as Nikola Jokic or Joel Embiid just yet, there is no ceiling to what the Minnesota Timberwolves star can do in the years to come.

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Do you think KAT can one day hold the title of the best big man in the NBA? Let us know your views in the comments below.