With no solidified center in the backup position, LA Clippers’ big man, Ivica Zubac, is dominating in his role. This is much needed for the Clippers, as they are making careless mistakes when he is off the floor. One of these errors happens to be on the glass. As a result, head coach Tyronn Lue gives Zubac an average of 30 minutes per game.
These high-volume minutes are worth it for the star center. In addition, Zubac is protecting the rim at an unreal rate. This gives Lue yet another NBA veteran who can substantially impact either end of the court. Not to mention, Zubac is the longest-tenured Clipper, as he was dealt at the trade deadline in 2019.
Watching the seven-foot center flourish over the years has been a sight to see. While the tools and skill-set have always been there, the polished finishing ability and rim protection took a few years to fully develop. Now, Zubac has taken his game to another level as he appears to be pushing a solid case for his first-ever All-Star selection.
Whether or not Zubac receives the All-Star votes, it would be a mistake to leave him out of the conversation. No center across the league can mimic the impact Zubac has on the game. He clearly worked on his abilities throughout the off-season after receiving a three-year, $33 million extension. Based on his performances in five games, this contract was a bargain for the Clippers’ front office.
The LA Clippers have one of the best centers in the Western Conference with Ivica Zubac.
Despite the 2-3 record, the LA Clippers’ starting center, Ivica Zubac, has held his own against some of the league’s best big men. It seems as if Zubac is reaching a new career-high in rebounds or blocks every night. Soon enough, he will top his memorable performance against the two-time MVP, Nikola Jokic.
So far this season, Zubac is averaging 13.0 rebounds and almost three blocks per game. This adds to his 9.6 points per game through the highest minute share he has received during his NBA career. These numbers include match-ups against All-Star talents in Domantas Sabonis, Anthony Davis, and even Deandre Ayton.
Ivica Zubac has a new career-high 18 rebounds tonight. This comes after he set a new career-high for blocks with 7 on Tuesday night.
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) October 28, 2022
The biggest reason why Zubac is thriving is that he can fit in with any lineup for Lue and the Clippers. This could be with the superstar duo in the starting lineup or off the bench with the play-making point guard, John Wall. His interior game also creates opportunities for shots around the perimeter, as teams tend to send help defense when there’s a mismatch. This backs up Zubac’s impact against some of the best big men the league has to offer.
If Zubac continues his exceptional play, the LA Clippers will unlock their full potential. Additionally, Lue will have his best player, Kawhi Leonard, returning very soon, making winning games much more effortless. With this version of Zubac, the Clippers are close to perfect when fully healthy.