[Gozlan] Teams that fit the profile as potential Ivica Zubac suitors — if the LA Clippers were to ever made him available: Celtics, Pacers, Pelicans, Bulls, and Magic.
The most interesting player the Clippers could potentially make available is Ivica Zubac. He has the most trade value on the roster and may be the only player who can net positive value if moved now. He would have many suitors around the league if made available.
The demand for big men could be high with more teams trending to playing more zone with bigger lineups, according to Fischer. Zubac may be the most coveted big man in a market where many big men are expected to be available for trade. There are a handful of teams that could use an above-average starting center earning well below the maximum.
The Celtics and Pacers could look to acquire him now in preparation for a title run for next season when they get their respective stars back. Indiana, in particular, has some young players that could be of interest, with Bennedict Mathurin and Jarace Walker. A package featuring one or both players and a draft pick would be a solid starting point in the Clippers’ transition to a new era.
The Pelicans could really use a rim protector to add some level of respectability on defense. The only issue is that they seem unlikely to trade future first-round picks after trading their unprotected 2026 first-round pick to the Hawks. Maybe the Clippers could get one if they’re open to taking on the three years, $82 million remaining on Dejounte Murray’s contract. A package could also include recent first-round picks like Yves Missi and Jordan Hawkins.
The Bulls reportedly had internal discussions about acquiring Anthony Davis, according to Jamal Collier. They could alternatively acquire Zubac, whose significantly cheaper salary could allow them to keep Nikola Vucevic, so they could still run five-out lineups. They could bring in Zubac and still have significant cap space in 2026 to further upgrade the roster.
The Magic could also fit Zubac into their payroll structure, but can only trade their 2032 first-round pick. They may want to hold onto that selection after trading four for Desmond Bane. All the other teams mentioned could offer multiple first-round picks in a trade this season.