Pacers Secure Ivica Zubac from Clippers at NBA Trade Deadline
In a significant move at the NBA trade deadline, the Indiana Pacers have acquired center Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers. This trade was confirmed by various reports, including one from ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Details of the Trade
As part of the deal, the Pacers are sending guard Bennedict Mathurin to the Clippers. This trade marks a pivotal shift for the Pacers as they seek to strengthen their roster after recently losing Myles Turner to the Milwaukee Bucks in free agency.
Player Performance Stats
- Ivica Zubac:
- Averages 14.0 points per game
- Averages 11.0 rebounds per game
- Shooting 61.3% from the field
- Ranks fifth in the NBA for rebounding
- Bennedict Mathurin:
- Second-leading scorer for the Pacers with 17.8 points per game
- Averages 5.4 rebounds per game
- Drafted No. 6 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft
- Has played 237 games with an average of 16.1 points per game over his career
Context of the Trade
Mathurin’s tenure with the Pacers has been notable, making him the first Pacers player since Rik Smits to earn first-team All-Rookie honors. His scoring ability made him a high-profile draft pick, yet he struggled to find consistency in the starting lineup. With Tyrese Haliburton leading the team, Mathurin’s individual style clashed with the team’s up-tempo approach.
As the Pacers explore new strategies, the addition of Zubac offers a different dynamic. Meanwhile, Mathurin’s future remains uncertain as he is set to be a restricted free agent at the end of the season.
Looking Ahead
The Pacers continue to reshape their roster in hopes of enhancing their competitive stance. Acquiring Ivica Zubac could provide the necessary boost as they transition into the closing months of the NBA season.
