As the NBA trade deadline approaches on Thursday, Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac is generating interest from several teams, notably the Indiana Pacers. The Clippers have reportedly received multiple inquiries about Zubac’s availability, with the Pacers identified as a leading contender to acquire him, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
Clippers’ Recent Trade and Playoff Situation
This week, the Clippers executed a major trade, sending 11-time All-Star guard James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers. In return, they received two-time All-Star guard Darius Garland and a second-round draft pick. Despite moving Harden, the Clippers remain involved in the Western Conference playoff race, holding the ninth spot with a 23-27 record.
To clinch a postseason berth, Los Angeles will likely need to compete in the play-in tournament, where Zubac’s role will be crucial. While Kawhi Leonard leads the team in scoring with 27.6 points per game and Garland is set to fill Harden’s previous role, Zubac remains a key contributor.
Zubac’s On-Court Impact and Career Highlights
The 28-year-old Bosnian center ranks third on the Clippers in scoring at 14.4 points per game and leads the team with 11.0 rebounds per game. Last season marked a career high for Zubac, when he averaged 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. His defensive efforts earned him a sixth-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting as well as a spot on the NBA All-Defensive Second Team.
This season, his statistics are slightly below last year’s peak but still represent the second-best performance of his career, increasing his value as a trade candidate for teams seeking interior strength.
Potential Fit with Indiana Pacers
Although the Pacers currently hold the worst record in the Eastern Conference at 13-38, acquiring Zubac would focus on rebuilding for the future. After reaching Game 7 of the NBA Finals last season, Indiana has struggled in part due to guard Tyrese Haliburton’s Achilles injury and the departure of center Myles Turner in free agency.
Adding Zubac to a roster that includes a healthy Haliburton and All-Star forward Pascal Siakam could help Indiana return to playoff contention in the next season. Zubac’s contract extends through the 2027-28 season, making him a long-term option rather than a short-term rental, which increases his appeal for teams planning ahead.
Possible Consequences and Upcoming Developments
Although the Clippers are not obliged to trade Zubac at this moment, the wave of trade calls demonstrates his desirability. Offers from the Pacers and other teams may prompt the Clippers to consider moving the center as they continue to adjust their roster following the Harden trade. How the Clippers manage Zubac’s future could influence their postseason prospects and salary cap flexibility moving forward.
Sources: After trading James Harden to Cleveland earlier this week, the Clippers have still been receiving calls on starting center Ivica Zubac, with the Indiana Pacers prime among his suitors.
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— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) February 5, 2026
