No. 2 LA Clipper most likely to be traded this offseason: Ivica Zubac
Ivica Zubac could potentially get moved from the LA Clippers because there aren’t a lot of true centers in the league anymore. The interest for Zubac could be a lot higher than one might think.
The center market in free agency this year is pretty weak. Teams who are in need of a center are better off looking for a center through a trade.
The Clips are likely going to bring back Serge Ibaka, who has a player option. So they can afford to deal Zubac, and Zu is a player I’m not sold the Clippers need if Ibaka is back.
While the Clippers would need another center other than Ibaka and Daniel Otutu, DeMarcus Cousins would be a much cheaper option to just re-sign.
I’m not trying to pick between what I think is the best situation for us at center, but in reality, we could figure out how to form a good roster without Zubac next year.
If we get the right offer, don’t be surprised if he’s dealt this offseason. We like to play small ball anyway, and Zubac obviously isn’t going to be on the floor as much if we’re going to employ a lot of small lineups next year.
Due to small ball’s success in the playoffs this year, we probably will be employing many smaller lineups.