The Los Angeles Clippers surprised fans and analysts alike during the 2026 NBA trade deadline by trading Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers. This move followed the high-profile trade of veteran James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Along with Zubac, Kobe Brown was also sent to Indiana as the Clippers acquired young talents Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson, along with three future draft picks.
Clippers Leadership Commends Zubac’s Contributions
After the trade, Clippers president Lawrence Frank expressed deep appreciation for Zubac’s time with the organization. Highlighting his importance, Frank described Zubac as one of the NBA’s top centers and the longest-serving player on the Clippers’ roster. Frank emphasized that Zubac’s elite rim protection, rebounding ability, and offensive development reflected his dedication on and off the court.
Zu is one of the best centers in the NBA, the longest-tenured player on the team, and a pillar of everything we’ve done for the past seven years,
Frank said.
He is an elite rim protector and rebounder who made himself into an effective offensive threat, a tribute to his hard work. We will miss Zu as a player and a person.
Lawrence Frank, Clippers President
Zubac’s Growth and Role with the Clippers
Ivica Zubac began his NBA career after being selected in the second round of the 2016 draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He was traded to the Clippers in 2019 along with Michael Beasley in exchange for Mike Muscala. Over eight seasons with the Clippers, Zubac maintained averages of 11.4 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. This season, across 43 appearances, he has elevated his play, averaging 14.4 points and 11.0 rebounds, underscoring his continued growth as a key big man.
During his tenure, Zubac was known for his resilient defense, dependable rebounding, and a growing offensive presence. His chemistry with stars like Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden has been a cornerstone of the Clippers’ strategies on both ends of the floor.
Clippers Shift Focus with Incoming Young Talent
In returning Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson, the Clippers have added a dynamic scorer and a promising center, both expected to play significant roles in the franchise’s future. The team is blending youth with experience, pairing these new additions alongside established veterans Kawhi Leonard and Bradley Beal to build a balanced roster prepared for upcoming seasons.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for the Pacers
While Zubac’s arrival offers veteran presence for Indiana, the Pacers are currently struggling in the Eastern Conference with a 13-38 record, far from playoff contention after reaching the NBA Finals last year. However, the outlook could improve next season, especially with star guard Tyrese Haliburton returning from injury. Mixed with Pascal Siakam, Zubac’s experience can form a strong core within Indiana’s frontcourt.
The Pacers’ ability to harness this trio’s potential will be critical to climbing the standings, although health and team chemistry remain key factors. Zubac’s move signals a long-term rebuilding effort aimed at revitalizing Indiana’s competitiveness in the league.
Clippers President Lawrence Frank on trading Ivica Zubac:
"Zu is one of the best centers in the NBA, the longest-tenured player on the team and a pillar of everything we’ve done for the past seven years. He is an elite rim protector and rebounder who made himself into an…
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) February 6, 2026
