Ivica Zubac, recently traded from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Indiana Pacers, remains sidelined due to a persistent ankle sprain and will miss another game against the New York Knicks. Although listed as questionable, his debut for the Pacers is being delayed as he continues to recover. This ongoing injury prevents the team from adding a much-needed presence at center during a critical stretch of the season.
Team Updates and Expected Timeline for Zubac’s Return
Since the trade deadline acquisition, Zubac has not made an appearance for the Pacers, with his last game dating back to February 2. Head coach Rick Carlisle revealed on a local Indianapolis radio show that Zubac will not suit up for the next two games against the Knicks and Brooklyn Nets. This means that Zubac will remain out through the upcoming All-Star break, though the center is anticipated to be available starting February 19, when Indiana faces the Washington Wizards on the road.
The absence of Zubac has forced Carlisle to adjust the Pacers’ frontcourt rotation. Jay Huff is slated to start in Zubac’s place for at least the next two games before potentially returning to the bench. The team also struggles with injuries to other key big men, including Johnny Furphy, who suffered a season-ending torn ACL in their recent loss to the Toronto Raptors, and Obi Toppin, sidelined with a stress fracture. Backup center Micah Potter is questionable due to a left hip contusion, further complicating Indiana’s options.
Coming into their matchup against the Knicks, the Pacers face a tough challenge. The Knicks have been dominant recently, winning eight of their last nine games. Indiana’s depleted frontcourt will contend with Karl-Anthony Towns, who has recorded five straight double-doubles, posing a significant challenge for the shorthanded Pacers.
Current Injury Status Across Both Teams
The Pacers’ injury list is extensive: Johnny Furphy and Tyrese Haliburton are both sidelined with serious injuries, while Quenton Jackson, T.J. McConnell, Aaron Nesmith, Taelon Peter, Micah Potter, Ethan Thompson, and Ivica Zubac remain questionable due to various ailments. Obi Toppin is also out with a right foot stress fracture.
On the Knicks’ side, OG Anunoby is questionable with right toe soreness, and Pacome Dadiet and Dillon Jones are uncertain as they are G League players. Miles McBride is out following pelvic core muscle surgery, and Mitchell Robinson is sidelined due to injury management protocols.
Implications for the Pacers’ Roster and Season Outlook
The delay in Ivica Zubac’s debut complicates the Pacers’ immediate plans, especially as they try to maintain competitiveness during critical matchups. The injury challenges in the frontcourt could impact Indiana’s ability to contain dominant opponents like the Knicks, highlighting the significance of Zubac’s planned return after the All-Star break. With player health a major concern, the team’s coaching staff must continue to adapt their strategies to compensate for these absences as they progress through the season.
