Expanding Roles, Quarter of the Season

December 1, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Robert Sacre (50) reacts against the Portland Trail Blazers during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Robert Sacre is earning his minutes.  He’s doing so by playing tough defense.  He played surprisingly well against Zach Randolph, where his physical defense bothered a few shots.  It was downright shocking to see Sacre go to the post, and be aggressive with the basketball at the other end.  He drew a few fouls, frustrating Randolph even more, and hit 3 of 4 free throws on a few sequences.  He may be foul prone, but he is a presence in the paint the team sorely needs.  He doesn’t step too far outside of his skill level, and sticks to hard screens, short jumpers, and the occasional jumphook.  Chris Kaman may have the higher overall offensive skill level, but it’s defense and rebounding the team needs.  Sacre is there.