Indiana Pacers Acquire Center Ivica Zubac from Los Angeles Clippers
The Indiana Pacers are making a significant move to bolster their lineup, acquiring center Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, two first-round picks, and one second-round pick, as reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. This trade aims to fill the void left by the departure of center Myles Turner in the offseason, providing the Pacers with a new starting center.
The Pacers, who currently hold a 13-38 record, one of the worst in the NBA, are looking to the future with this acquisition. Zubac, who will turn 29 next month, is averaging 14 points and 11 rebounds on 61% shooting this season. He is under contract through the 2027-28 season and is expected to form a potent pick-and-roll partnership with Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton upon his return from a torn Achilles next season.
As part of the deal, Indiana also received third-year guard Kobe Brown. The Clippers, on the other hand, will receive a 2026 first-round pick from the Pacers, protected from picks Nos. 1-4 and 10-30, and a 2029 unprotected Pacers first-rounder. If the 2026 pick does not convey, it will convert to an unprotected first in 2031.
Zubac’s Impact on the Pacers
Zubac is expected to significantly improve the Pacers’ frontline, which currently ranks 28th in the league in points allowed by opponents in the paint. According to GeniusIQ tracking, since the start of last season, Zubac has contested more than 2,000 field goals, allowing opponents to shoot just 44.8% on those shots. His ability to set screens will also be a valuable asset, as he set the third-most on-ball screens in the league since the start of last season.
Mathurin’s Future with the Clippers
Mathurin, 23, is expected to contribute to the Clippers’ youth movement. Los Angeles has been active in recent days, also acquiring guard Darius Garland from the Cavaliers in exchange for James Harden. Mathurin is averaging 17.8 points, 5.4 rebounds on 43% shooting this season in 28 games. He is in the final year of his rookie deal and will become a restricted free agent in the summer, providing the Clippers with an opportunity to retain his services.
This trade marks a significant shift for both teams, with the Pacers focusing on building for the future and the Clippers bolstering their lineup with young talent. As the NBA season progresses, the impact of this trade will be closely watched, with both teams looking to make a statement in their respective conferences.
For more information on this trade and its implications, visit ESPN for the latest news, analysis, and expert insights.
