Stephen R. Sylvanie- USA Today Sports
With the departure of Dwight Howard from the Los Angeles Lakers, it is almost a guarantee that Gonzaga graduate, Robert Sacre, will see more playing time during the 2013-14 season. Even though he has the newly signed Chris Kaman and Jordan Hill ahead of him on the roster, Sacre brings a combination of youth and athleticism to a very old and injured Lakers roster.
When Sacre played for Gonzaga, he averaged 10.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game during the 2009-10 season as their starting center. His numbers haven’t exactly translated since being drafted into the NBA, but that is really due to a lack of consistent minutes. In his first pro starting debut against the Houston Rockets, Sacre finished with a stat line of 10 points, four blocks and three rebounds. Not bad for a player that has bounced around between the D-League and the professional league.
This upcoming season could be a breakout one for Sacre. If given the opportunity, he could prove to be a valuable role player. With his size and weight, he could be taught how to effectively box out and become a rebounding machine. His shooting percentage could improve as well, but the Lakers will need his presence in the paint for rebounding and defending the rim.
With Kobe Bryant, Steve Nash and Pau Gasol all coming back from injury, it will be a golden opportunity for Sacre to get some quality playing time and prove he is a valuable backup center.
