The LA Clippers find themselves in a precarious position as they look towards the future, with a lottery pick potentially offering their only path to rejuvenation. This situation hinges on the Clippers making a strategic selection in the upcoming draft, where one player stands out as a true game changer with his all-around inside play.
Now may be the ideal time to trade center Ivica Zubac for a draft pick. By 2026, Clippers president Lawrence Frank will have numerous promising prospects to consider, such as AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson, as well as Dash Daniels, who is currently showcasing his talents in Australia with Melbourne United. However, Zubac’s value in the trade market is a double-edged sword. While bottom-tier teams may shy away from a seasoned center like him, fearing the draft as their primary source for young talent, franchises in need of immediate reinforcement may have Zubac at the top of their wish lists.
Given the Clippers’ tumultuous history, it is vital that if they part ways with Zubac, they secure a pick that turns out to be a success. The repercussions of acquiring yet another draft bust could echo the missteps made previously, particularly concerning trades involving players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Norman Powell.
Despite the current woes of the Clippers, including a string of 19 losses, there is a silver lining: the potential to improve their lottery odds. If the Clippers were to have their own draft pick this season, they might even embrace a losing streak as a strategic pathway to bolster their squad for the future, enhancing their chances of landing a top pick in the highly coveted 2026 NBA draft.
The Chicago Bulls emerge as one of the teams that may be interested in acquiring Zubac, despite their less than favorable chances to secure the first overall pick. Currently with a 10-15 record, the Bulls possess a slim 2% chance to land the top choice and a 9.4% probability of finishing within the top four. With a young prospect like Josh Giddey solidifying their backcourt future, the addition of Zubac could be a boon, especially considering his productive potential eclipsing that of their current center, Nikola Vucevic.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Clippers’ decision-making will be crucial. The future of the franchise hangs in the balance, and a shrewd trade could pave the way for a brighter era.