The LA Clippers seem to have hit a bump in the road with Ivica Zubac, as the combination of Mike Scotto’s latest report on ‘HoopsHype’ and recent performances implies that the big man is weeks away from a trade. Scotto mentioned that the early-season price on Zubac was two first-round picks for those interested; so far, the top callers have reportedly been the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers.
Before Zubac’s injury, the Clippers may have even denied two firsts. They might have looked at the offer, thought it over for a few days, but given his contract value and what he means to the fans, the agreed-upon decision would have been to retain him.
However, the two weeks Zubac missed were the most detrimental time period of his career. LA realized its potential without him, and once he returned, the Croatian star did not help his case, averaging seven points and nine rebounds in 27 minutes while shooting 33% from the floor.
Thus, the Celtics and Pacers each have assets that LA could leverage. Yet one of the team’s offers will ultimately outweigh the others, and the hope is that the winner will be Indiana.
The Pacers have various pieces that the Clippers would easily take on for Ivica Zubac
The Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers have front offices that are wise with a track record of smart trades, signings, and draft choices. If both are simultaneously interested in Ivica Zubac, following the rumored price and how the LA Clippers have always viewed him, then incoming into the Intuit Dome could be several top-tier role players.
The Celtics will pitch the argument that assets like Anfernee Simons, Jordan Walsh, and/or draft picks are competently equal to Zubac’s production and salary-fillers. But there is no star in the picture, and the Clippers do not want to be empty-handed.
On the contrary, the Pacers have a variety. There is reason to believe they will be the hungrier team, as Myles Turner's absence leaves the Clippers with bargaining power. In this case, Lawrence Frank may have the option to receive a rising star like Andrew Nembhard draft capital.
That said, Zubac is among the Clippers' talents likely to be traded. He will always be loved in Inglewood, California, yet it is time to make a decision that has been overdue this season, based on the facts: LA was 7-21 (pre-injury) with him, then went 5-0 without him.