Assessing the Center position for the Los Angeles Lakers

Jonathan Williams

Jonathan Williams' energy and defense has impressed the Lakers.

Jonathan Williams is really a power forward, but he has also spent time at the center position. At 6-9, 228, he is a bit undersized as a 4 and 5, but he makes up for it with his energy and heart. He has had breakout games against the Boston Celtics and Charlotte Hornets. He has potential as a rebounder and shot-blocker. He takes charges, has shown the ability to defend in the post and on the perimeter. He has a lefty hook, but most of his points come from cuts to the rim. He will likely be on the summer league roster again, and figures to compete for a roster spot.

Mike Muscala

Mike Muscala has not been particularly impressive on either end of the court since being acquired from the Clippers.

Mike Muscala was acquired at the trading deadline for has been largely unimpressive on both ends of the court with the Lakers. On Sunday, in a blowout victory against the Pelicans, “Moose” posted his best game as a Lakers, with 10 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. His skillset and measurements are nearly identical to Moe Wagner, but he does not have the upside. He has disappointed in terms of being a stretch big man to open up the floor. He almost certainly will not be brought back as a free agent. Since he was acquired, he essentially fell behind Wagner and Williams in the big man rotation.

Kyle Kuzma

Kyle Kuzma, a gifted scorer and shooter, has made strides defensively, even at the center position.

Kyle Kuzma is essentially a 3/4, but he also spends time here. He is a gifted and natural scorer. The benefit is that he is too quick off the dribble for most centers, and he can stretch them from the 3-point line. The bad news is that is at 6-9 and 220 pounds, he can be manhandled in the post and on the boards against big, strong centers. He has shown some improvement as a defender, but he is still susceptible to lapses. Kuz figures to get spot minutes at center in small-ball lineups, but his primary positions will continue to be power forward and small forward (as long as he is on the roster).