Jazz's Kyle Filipowski Embraces Versatility as He Juggles Multiple Positions

Second-year forward has seen increased playing time and production despite challenges of playing out of position

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:49am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, capturing the dynamic movement and energy of the sport.Filipowski's versatility in adapting to different positions showcases his growth and value to the Jazz's future.Salt Lake City Today

Utah Jazz forward Kyle Filipowski has had to play more minutes at the center position this season due to injuries to the team's big men. While it has not been an easy transition, Filipowski has embraced the opportunity and sees it as a chance to grow his game and better understand the needs of players like Walker Kessler and Jaren Jackson Jr. who may play the five in the future.

Why it matters

Filipowski's ability to adapt to different positions and roles is a valuable asset for the Jazz as they navigate a challenging season. His willingness to take on new responsibilities and learn on the fly demonstrates his maturity and commitment to the team's success.

The details

Jazz head coach Will Hardy has praised Filipowski's coachability and the work he has put in to improve in areas where he needs to grow. Despite the challenges of playing out of position, Filipowski has seen increased playing time and production, averaging 15.7 points and 8.4 rebounds per game since the All-Star break.

  • On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, Filipowski finished with 20 points, 10 rebounds and 5 assists in the Jazz's 122-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets.

The players

Kyle Filipowski

A second-year forward for the Utah Jazz who has had to play more minutes at the center position this season due to injuries to the team's big men.

Will Hardy

The head coach of the Utah Jazz, who has praised Filipowski's coachability and the work he has put in to improve in areas where he needs to grow.

Walker Kessler

A center for the Utah Jazz who Filipowski hopes to better understand and anticipate the needs of after playing more minutes at the five position this season.

Jaren Jackson Jr.

Another center for the Utah Jazz who Filipowski hopes to better understand and anticipate the needs of after playing more minutes at the five position this season.

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What they’re saying

“Kyle is not a five, but Kyle can play five. Our fives this season have not been healthy for a lot of the year...it's forcing Kyle to play more five than would be desirable.”

— Will Hardy, Utah Jazz Head Coach

“Just being able to get these reps, get these minutes, it helps with growing and getting that experience and being prepared for the future. It's a really great opportunity for me, and I'm really grateful for it. I'll be more prepared coming into the season next year playing alongside those guys.”

— Kyle Filipowski

“Kyle has had, in general, a good last couple of months. Kyle has been very coachable, and in no way is that the coaching staff taking credit for his success. He has taken feedback, he's dug in and done the work in the areas where he needs to improve. And he's in a good place right now in terms of recognizing when to be aggressive.”

— Will Hardy, Utah Jazz Head Coach

The takeaway

Filipowski's ability to adapt to different positions and roles, despite the challenges, demonstrates his maturity and commitment to the team's success. This experience will make him more prepared to contribute alongside the Jazz's centers next season.