Celtics Writer Discusses Potential Ivica Zubac Trade

The Boston Celtics’ trade deadline assets are rather clear-cut, though their stance on adding or subtracting remains open. If they lean toward acquisitions, they can leverage pieces such as Anfernee Simons ($27.7 million expiring agreement) and Sam Hauser ($10 million hit), prioritizing a frontcourt reinforcement.

An option proposed by The Athletic’s Jay King is LA Clippers center Ivica Zubac, whose availability is uncertain but who could fit seamlessly in Boston.

Zubac would offers strong rebounding and a defensive presence, aligning well with Boston’s core.

“It’s unclear whether the Clippers’ big man will be available,” King wrote on Wednesday. “If he is, he could be an ideal target. At 28, he fits Boston’s timeline alongside Tatum and Brown and should still have years of his prime left.”

“Zubac was second-team All-Defense last season and is also an impactful offensive player with big offensive rebound numbers,” King continued. “On top of his basketball talent, his contract would be a positive for the Celtics. Zubac will make $18.1 million this season (more than $9 million less than Simons) with two more seasons left on a very reasonable deal. The problem? If Zubac is available, he would likely require the Celtics to part ways with significant draft capital. Still, if he’s the missing piece, he would be worth it.”

Zubac has suited up for 34 games with the Clippers this season, tallying 14.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.0 blocks in 31.3 minutes per appearance. His latest efforts feature nine points and 11 rebounds against Charlotte on January 12 and 17 points with six rebounds versus Detroit on January 10.

Zubac entered the NBA as the 32nd overall pick by the Lakers in the 2016 Draft. Over his nine-year career, he has competed in 618 games, averaging 10.4 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while hitting 60.6 percent of his shots. Zubac secured second-team All-Defense recognition last season.