Early Top 5 Potential Utah Jazz Free Agent Targets: Centers
By Ryan Aston
Mar 7, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves center Nikola Pekovic (14) attempts the drive to the basket past Portland Trail Blazers center Robin Lopez (42) in the first half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
4. Robin Lopez, Portland Trail Blazers
Although he probably wouldn’t mesh well with the Jazz Bear, Robin Lopez could fit seamlessly into coach Quin Snyder’s frontcourt rotation. His energy on both sides of the ball would be a boon for a Jazz team lacking in depth.
When Lopez has been on the floor for the Blazers this season, his team has posted an offensive rating of 106.5 and a defensive rating of 99.2—both numbers are an improvement over the team’s performance when he is on the bench.
So while players like Aldridge and Damian Lillard lead the way for Portland, the team wouldn’t be where they are without Lopez. On the year, the seven-footer is averaging just under 10 points, 7 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.
Is he a “max player” like his brother Brook (allegedly) is? Not at all. He’s simply a player that helps you win.
Next: 3. Marreese Speights, Golden State Warriors