The Pacers' new center is facing a delayed debut, leaving fans eager for his arrival on the court. Ivica Zubac, acquired by the Indiana Pacers from the LA Clippers, is currently on paternity leave, celebrating the birth of his first child. But there's a catch: he's also nursing an ankle injury that has been bothering him since December, according to head coach Rick Carlisle.
Carlisle revealed that Zubac's debut is on hold, stating, 'We're not going to put him out there until he's really ready.' This news comes as the Pacers aim to fill a void at center after losing Myles Turner in free agency. Zubac, known for his consistent presence on the court, has played in 94-95% of his career games, but Carlisle assures that his immediate availability is not an option.
And here's where the trade gets interesting: Indiana sent a 2026 first-round draft pick to the Clippers, but it's protected in the top 1-4 and 10-30. This means the Pacers have a 14% chance of landing the No.1 overall pick if they finish with one of the league's worst records. If the pick doesn't convey in 2026, it becomes an unprotected first-rounder in 2031.
Zubac, who has been a consistent performer this season with averages of 14.4 points and 11 rebounds per game, offers a different playing style than Turner. While Turner was a stretch big who could stretch defenses with his three-point shooting, Zubac hasn't attempted a single three-pointer this season.
Carlisle acknowledged the difference, stating, 'The two guys are different... We'll study it and figure out how it all fits together.' This strategic shift in the Pacers' lineup is sure to spark debates among fans and analysts alike.
So, what do you think? Is Zubac the right fit for the Pacers' long-term plans? Will his playing style be a seamless transition or a controversial shift? Share your thoughts below, and let's discuss the future of Indiana's frontcourt!
