Ivica Zubac and the LA Clippers' Regret
Despite a slow start this season, the LA Clippers are now regretting their decision involving Ivica Zubac that could have changed their current trajectory.
Missed Opportunity in the Offseason
The Clippers hesitated to include Zubac, due to his age and concerns about his remaining prime years, in a major offseason trade for Kevin Durant. However, given Zubac's early struggles this season, the team now believes going through with the trade would have been a better choice.
Expected Decline and Unexpected Impact
Some decline in Zubac’s performance was anticipated, but it was expected he would recover. Instead, his reduced physical presence has led to fewer post-ups, rebounds, and effective use of his height, which has hurt the Clippers' interior game.
Kevin Durant’s Success Elsewhere
Conversely, Durant is flourishing with the Houston Rockets. At 37, his performance hasn’t diminished despite moving from the Phoenix Suns to his preferred team.
“In June, Jake Fischer of ‘The Stein Line’ reported interest from the Phoenix Suns in 28-year-old Ivica Zubac, but the LA Clippers were firm that his home would be in Los Angeles.”
The Clippers now deeply regret rejecting a proposal that would have sent Zubac to the Suns in exchange for one of the NBA's greatest offensive talents.
Summary
The Clippers' hesitance to trade Ivica Zubac, despite early signs of his decline, has backfired as Kevin Durant thrives elsewhere, fueling regret about missed roster improvement opportunities.