Marc Gasol

Is Marc Gasol the best center in the league?  For the past 5 seasons, Dwight Howard had been the overwhelming choice as the top center in the league, but after a lukewarm season for Howard, and an exceptional season from Gasol, there should be a debate.  Here were their stats this season:

Per 36 Min:
Gasol- 14.5pts/8reb/4.1ast/1.8bk/1st
Howard- 17.1pts/12.5reb/1.4ast/2.5bk/1.1st

Gasol is coming off of a defensive player of the year award, Howard won the award in the past (2009-2011)

Advanced Statistics:
Gasol- 11.6 win shares this season, net +11.2pts per 100 possessions.
Howard- 7.6 win shares, net +4.1pts per 100 possessions.

Who is best at each category?
Inside Scoring- Howard
Outside Scoring- Gasol
Passing/Ball Handle- Gasol
Inside Defense- Gasol
Outside Defense- Howard

As a free agent this summer, Howard has the potential to earn more than 20 million per year if he resigns with LA.  Gasol will earn roughly 15 million per year for the next two.  Both are elite centers- the top two in the league- but the point is that there is a compelling argument that Gasol is a better center than Howard, and the best in the league.

Who would you pick?  Howard puts up a ridiculous stat line year after year, but the advanced metrics Gasol puts together in helping his team win are vastly impressive as well.  At this single point in time, I'll take Gasol.  But I will say this- LA has not been the right fit for Howard.  Playing with a guard (Kobe) and post (Pau Gasol) who need many touches, Howard's effectiveness has been limited.  He needs a change in scenery, and if he gets it, will challenge Gasol again next year for the title of top center in the league.

For now?  Congrats to Marc Gasol.

Bonus- Remember when everyone thought LA fleeced Memphis in the trade for Pau.  Hindsight is always 20/20...