Ivica Zubac
Getty
Ivica Zubac is fifth in double-doubles this season
The Los Angeles Clippers have caught fire, winning 12 of their last 15 games, and don’t appear to be in fire sale mode entering the trade deadline — despite their current position as the tenth seed in the West.
Still, Clippers stars James Harden, Kawhi Leonard and Ivica Zubac have been heavily involved in trade rumors all season — and could be had for the right price.
While fielding offers for Zubac, the Clippers have reportedly informed rival executives that they are seeking multiple first-round picks, according to CluthPoints insider Brett Siegel.
Writing for ClutchPoints, NBA insider Brett Siegel reported that there is widespread interest in Zubac. Additionally, Los Angeles was offered an unprotected first-round pick for the 28-year-old center.
“Ivica Zubac has been widely considered the Clippers’ best trade asset, with the Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers, and Charlotte Hornets among at least five teams who inquired about the big man’s availability when the team was going through its struggles, league sources told ClutchPoints,” Siegel wrote.
“The Clippers, however, have rejected trade offers for Zubac, with a belief around the league that they’re seeking multiple first-round picks in any potential deal for him. One team offered an unprotected first-round pick and a pick swap in an offer for Zubac, sources said, but those talks didn’t go anywhere.”
Ivica Zubac Could be a Massive Trade Chip
Ivica Zubac
GettyClippers set asking price for Croatian center
Despite the Clippers’ woes as a team, this season has been a fruitful one for the Croatian center Zubac.
He is averaging 14.8 points and 10.8 rebounds while shooting 60 percent from the floor. Only Karl Anthony-Towns (29) and Nikola Jokic (28) have more double-doubles by a center this season than Zubac.
A willing defender and tireless rebounder, Zubac would be a welcome boost to just about any franchise.
For those interested in acquiring the Croatian star, they must be willing to match the Clippers’ steep asking price.
Zubac, 28, is on a team-friendly deal and is among the best rebounders at his position. He’s young enough to fit into the title window of most contenders.
Given his production this season and the Clippers recent surge back into the play-in picture, it’s not surprising that Los Angeles is in no rush to move him.
As the trade deadline nears, perhaps the team will get an offer that piques their interest.
Boston Celtics Linked to Ivica Zubac
Ivica Zubac
GettyCeltics exploring trade market for center upgrades
With Jayson Tatum nearing a return and Jaylen Brown playing at an MVP level, the Boston Celtics have quietly become one of the most fearsome teams in the league.
Still, the Eastern Conference powerhouse is reportedly looking to add on at the deadline, and Zubac could be the boost they desire.
Boston currently ranks tenth in rebounds and could climb even higher up the leaderboard with the addition of the double-double specialist Zubac.
Whether it was Boston that offered the unprotected first-round pick for Zubac is unconfirmed, but such an offer would be a good starting point for a potential Celtics trade package.
In addition to Zubac, the Celtics have been linked to Brooklyn Nets center Day’Ron Sharpe, Bulls veteran Nikola Vucevic and Warriors reserve Al Horford.