The next-man-up mentality for Yanic Konan Niederhauser lived to be seen, yet again, in the LA Clippers’ 14-point win versus the Washington Wizards. He did not get the start, but in 23 minutes off the bench, the rookie was perfect from the field and ultimately proved that Ivica Zubac is not needed on the roster.
In addition to not missing, Niederhauser posted 16 points, five rebounds, and two blocks, and was a +/- of +14. It was essentially a perfect night with few mistakes to learn from.
Before the win over Washington, Niederhauser had not received any real playing time since the New Year’s opener versus the Utah Jazz. He posted ten rebounds, helped LA triumph over the Jazz, and was immediately taken out of the rotation with Zubac returning.
Thus, the takeaway last night was that the front office should be comfortable trading Zubac. His name will bring draft capital, and if the franchise already employs his replacement, it makes perfect sense to send him away by February 5th.
The Clippers officially have the green light to move on from Ivica Zubac
Rookies at the professional level are known to fold under inconsistent minutes. Half of the equation to perform well stems from repeated reps, and their inexperience toughens the mental state of the game.
However, Yanic Konan Niederhauser starred while Ivica Zubac was injured for a stretch before the New Year, took a seat on the bench with professionalism, not knowing when his number would be called again, then two weeks later tied his career-high in points, which was pivotal in the LA Clippers’ win streak being extended to four.
This is the call to action: Zubac could be shipped away in a trade, and the Clippers could manage. He is still a quality center, but not an X-factor.
Moreover, on the market, the Clippers should still search for a starting-level center on an expiring contract. Robert Williams of the Portland Trail Blazers is a perfect candidate, which cements the center rotation for the rest of the way.
In the summer, nothing would be guaranteed, yet Niederhauser could compete for a larger role next season.
That said, until the deadline, Tyronn Lue should ensure Niederhauser is ramped up for the second half of the season by playing him meaningful minutes. Though he could be the dark-horse playoff contributor for the Clippers, he needs activity to develop for a stage he has never seen.