The Boston Celtics were adamant at spoiling the LA Clippers’ six-game win streak. They succeeded to say the least, and it began with the unfazed mindset on Tyronn Lue’s news of Ivica Zubac coming off the bench. Joe Mazzulla had him well guarded, and beyond the fact that the big man was rusty, Zubac clearly demonstrated he is not fit to win with the Clippers this season.
Zubac’s return had Lue warming Yanic Konan Niederhauser’s seat on the bench for no reason, as in 21 center minutes last night, the Croatian Star recorded four points, seven rebounds, shooting 2-6 from the field.
Thus, are the Celtics due for credit on their 22nd win, or should the blame be directed at Zubac? The victorious squad deserves praise for coming out on top without their first option, Jayson Tatum, yet the trends say LA is best on both ends of the court without their longest-tenured player.
The Clippers could trade Ivica Zubac, but they will have a hard time setting his value
In some instances, coincidences can be understood. However, there is nothing unusual about the losing chain of events involving Ivica Zubac; the LA Clippers were one of the worst teams in the NBA before his ankle injury, went on a six-game win streak right as he sat out, and lost with a 'Debbie Downer' vibe the game he returned in.
Consequently, the Clippers must set themselves up to successfully trade Zubac this season. His flat inside game, which has lost its umph, does not mesh well with the poor spacing he provides.
Additionally, his flaws extended to higher measures in the lost battle to the Boston Celtics at the Intuit Dome, with barely any resistance in the paint. Jaylen Brown maximized the Clippers' plummeted defense that sits in Zubac’s rearview mirror with 50 points in 35 minutes, with several easy, practice drill-type attempts.
Despite the loss he provides, other teams would give up an arm and a leg for an all-star level center averaging 15.2 points and 11.0 rebounds in the midst of a three-year, $58.6 million extension; that is an absolute steal that raises his value.
That said, a contradiction exists. Lawrence Frank must take advantage of Zubac’s message, yet the losses and finances are polar opposites. This is problematic, as it involves dipping the veteran big man’s name in the trade waters to gauge offers, then playing a trade by ear.