Now, that's just the opinion of one columnist (Frank Hughes), and whenever you rank players, it's a matter of opinion and in reality, there's no right or wrong answers (although there are illogical statements, such as "Dwayne Schintzius was better than Wilt Chamberlain"). But he puts forward a good argument, including the point
...you have to eliminate the centers of about 21 teams straight away because those teams have power forwards playing the center position.
With guys like Ewing, Robinson, Olajuwon or Mourning retired, inactive, or in decline, there are few true centres left in the league. Hughes lists Vlade Divac as the only true center who could also be considered second best to Shaq, but mentions that his 2002/2003 numbers are inferior to Kandi's. Since Shaq is inactive and yet to play a minute of the 2002/2003 season, if we are to agree with the assertion Kandi is second best, then right now, he's the best centre in the NBA.
In any case, while Clippers brass say they want the big fellow back, it seems that Olowokandi is resigned to going elsewhere. Sources say he asked for only $85 million this past summer, a tad more than Bibby got from Sacramento, and the Clips declined.
$85mil might be asking a little too much, especially given it was before this season, and in light of the luxury tax, it was probably only fair that the Clippers did not pay up. But we all know the Clips don't like to spend money, and will let talent walk. They have to stop that trend, and that starts with Olowokandi, Brand and Miller. If they could replace Kandi at a cheaper price, fine, let him walk or trade him. But if they let him go, they would not be able to find a replacement that is the same or better, especially more cheaply.
If I were the Clippers' brass, I would look to heal the rift with Kandi and promise him a reasonable payday at the end of the season. Otherwise the Clippers policy of a revolving door talent pool will remain unchanged.
