In 2019, the LA Clippers made one of franchise history's most mesmerizing yet straightforward trades. They desperately sought a center and accepted a package from the Los Angeles Lakers, including Ivica Zubac and Michael Beasley for Mike Muscala.
Though the Clippers waived Beasley, LA knew they should keep Zubac because he was different from the other big men they had employed. Though he was only 21, he had the mentality of a veteran and appeared to have limitless potential to grow.
Moreover, the Clippers' front office studied his film on the Lakers. Although he did not play a huge amount in 2018 for Los Angeles, in the games he played more than 20 minutes, Zubac continuously produced noteworthy showcases.
Year by year with the Clippers, Zubac added something new to his game while developing alongside countless seasoned point guards and superstars. He learned mental toughness from players like Patrick Beverley and picked up details from Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook.
Zubac also evolved his defensive skill set, primarily from experience in the playoffs. Now, he understands how to move his feet, contest effectively, and recover from breakdowns. These factors have moved his name into All-Defensive debates.
Nonetheless, Zubac's prime has officially begun with the Clippers, making the Lakers regret what they once traded.
LA Clippers' star Ivica Zubac has capitalized on the Los Angeles Lakers' trade mistake in 2019
Though the LA Clippers have rostered several great centers, Ivica Zubac is likely the greatest in franchise history. It is mind-blowing that the Clippers found him in a trade where they gave up a minimal return.
This season, the Croatian star has averaged 16.4 points, 12.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 blocks, shooting 62.1% from the floor in 69 games. These statistics exemplify the durability, efficiency, and reliability crucial for the Clippers this season.
This trade between the Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers inserts deep regret, particularly this season when Anthony Davis was moved to the Dallas Mavericks.
Additionally, Zubac ensured that he would show up against the Lakers this year, as he has posted 17.0 points and 13.8 rebounds in the season series. This includes a 21-point and 19-rebound effort on January 19th, when the Clippers won by 14.
That said, Zubac is 28 and has entered the peak stage of his career. This has left the Lakers with sorrow and pain on the proposal they accepted six years ago.