The Los Angeles Lakers traded Ivica Zubac to the Los Angeles Clippers minutes before the trade deadline passed. Despite being involved in several trade rumors, Zubac had nothing but great things to say about the Lakers in his farewell message:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BtmEngBAjbc/?utm_source=ig_twitter_share&igshid=1r43chfnsv6d
Ivica Zubac was selected 32nd overall by the Lakers in the 2017 draft, and during his post-draft interviews, the 21-year-old was already raving about the opportunity to play for the team he watched as a kid.
He did not disappoint.
During his rookie season, he immediately made a name for himself by providing the Lakers with much-needed defense. He earned the monicker “Zublocka” because of his ability to protect the rim despite entering the league at 19 years old.
However, he was out of shape for most of his sophomore season and didn't see much playing time. He spent most of his time in the G League last year.
This season, Zubac once again showed flashes of his potential, giving the Lakers solid production while playing in the center rotation with JaVale McGee and Tyson Chandler. His chemistry with guard Rajon Rondo was evident as their pick-and-roll game demolished the Golden State Warriors during their Christmas Day showdown.
But the Lakers apparently were not sold enough on Zubac. They tried to package him in a trade for New Orleans Pelicans superstar Anthony Davis, and when that fell apart, they decided to ship him and Michael Beasley to the Clippers for Mike Muscala.
It is unclear if Ivica Zubac will be part of the Clippers' long-term future, but he will have the opportunity to play significant minutes for them for the remainder of the season.
Follow Us
Subscribe