The Los Angeles Clippers have finalized a significant trade, sending their starting center Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers as part of ongoing efforts to reshape their roster. This deal marks an important move for the Pacers as they seek to bolster their frontcourt with a proven presence ahead of the remainder of the NBA season.
Details of the Zubac Trade Between Clippers and Pacers
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Clippers are acquiring a package centered around young talent and future assets in exchange for Zubac. The Indiana Pacers will receive Ivica Zubac along with Kobe Brown, while the Clippers obtain Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and multiple future draft picks.
The full trade breakdown is as follows:
Pacers receive:
- Ivica Zubac
- Kobe Brown
Clippers receive:
- Bennedict Mathurin
- Isaiah Jackson
- 2026 first-round pick (protected 1-4, 10-30; converts to 2031 unprotected if conditions not met)
- 2029 unprotected first-round pick
- Second-round pick
Zubac is currently averaging 14.4 points and 11.0 rebounds per game with an efficient 61.3 percent shooting from the field across 43 games this season. His contract extends through the 2027–28 season, with a salary nearing $21 million in the final year.
In contrast, Bennedict Mathurin, aged 23, joins the Clippers entering the final season of his rookie deal and will become a restricted free agent after this year. Mathurin has appeared in 28 games this season for the Pacers, averaging 17.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game.
Pacers’ Attempt to Acquire Walker Kessler Before Zubac Trade
Before completing the deal for Ivica Zubac, the Indiana Pacers pursued a different option at center. NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that the Pacers made an offer to the Utah Jazz for center Walker Kessler, proposing a package that included two unprotected first-round selections.
However, the Jazz declined the proposal, prompting the Pacers to turn their attention toward Zubac. This pivot led to the trade sending Mathurin and two first-round picks to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for their starting center.
Implications of the Trade for Both Teams
This deal suggests a shift in both organizations’ trajectories, with the Pacers aiming to solidify their inside presence and the Clippers betting on youthful potential and future draft capital. While Zubac brings stability and experience to Indiana’s frontcourt, the Clippers add a promising scorer in Mathurin alongside additional assets, reflecting differing strategic priorities.
BREAKING: The Los Angeles Clippers are trading Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/eu6KtWgA9j
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 5, 2026
Sources: Indiana Pacers made a run at Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler and offered a package highlighted by two unprotected first-round picks. It was declined and Pacers pivoted to Zubac. Kessler will be in demand as a restricted free agent this summer.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 5, 2026
