The keys to what makes a center an All-Star in the modern era of hoops are shooting, playmaking, and unavoidable highlights that fans will have instilled in their memory. The epitome is Nikola Jokić, the megastar for the Denver Nuggets, who boasts a championship and a generational skill set.
Fans across the league cherish Jokic’s game because he has a quiet personality but brings the ideal mix of simplicity and flashiness. Opponents have never been able to figure him out, even if his scouting report is as long as a college essay, as the three-time MVP is unguardable, in simple words.
Big men who share a similar playstyle, such as Alperen Sengun and Domantas Sabonis, are taking the inevitable leap in stardom, proving that such playstyles are key to earning a high salary while simultaneously reaching the top center status in the NBA.
However, one of the only centers with a playstyle that will fit the needs of any team in the league is the LA Clippers’ rising star, Ivica Zubac. He can be flashy, and showed signs of court vision several times last season, yet he is paid to suit up and dominate teams with an old-school, two-way mindset.
An NBA Draft expert, Sam Vecenie, noted this and added context as to why the Croatian Star could become an All-Star next season, which would be an excellent way to follow up on the season in which he made an All-Defensive team.
Sam Vecinie discussed how the LA Clippers’ star is elite at what teams need big men to do
As Ivica Zubac developed a ridiculously efficient hook shot after working tirelessly on it in the summer, he could easily add a jumpshot if the LA Clippers asked him to head in the direction of modern centers. But, head coach Tyronn Lue needs just the basics from Zubac, and unlike most who have similar responsibilities, he could become an All-Star next season from it.
Moreover, Sam Vecinie recently spoke about how Zubac is the ideal screener, rebounder, and rim protector. These attributes, combined with a scoring skill set that could reach 20 points per game next season, would make him an unquestionable All-Star pick by next February.
Clipper Nation already possesses this level of knowledge. Still, Vecinie covering it takes it to an international stage, expanding the spotlight on how much Zubac is expected to produce next season on an LA squad that should be a top-four seed.