He's our starting center by default. If you are asking if he can be the starting center on a contender then that's a different question.
well that's what i'm asking.
Ok, then the answer is no. He can be a decent backup center on a contender.
the question why no?
Is he 10-15 pounds away? Is it due to his below avg standing reach?
what's lacking
Zeller needs to get...
1. Stronger without losing speed or quickness
2. More consistent play, especially on defense
3. A solid go to move on offense
4. More time on the court
...in short, just what any young NBA player needs. And yes, he's still young. Regardless of what some people think, a big man isn't necessarily done developing at 24. If he doesn't get hurt, and really works, he might not hit his prime until he's in his late 20's, say 28 or 29. So Tyler has time to get a good bit better than he is currently. OTOH, he could bump his head on his ceiling at any time and we won't know until after it happens.