Quietly one of the NBA’s most reliable and underrated centers, Ivica Zubac provides the Clippers with a strong two-way interior presence. His size, rebounding, efficient scoring and defensive toughness have made him a pivotal piece of the puzzle for Los Angeles.
- Lior Lampert
FanSided Staff Writer
Zubac controls the paint, using his sturdy frame and strength to dominate the boards — on both ends of the floor. Thanks to his physical features and a willingness to get his hands dirty, the 7-footer is among the best offensive rebounders in basketball. He’s a strong finisher around the rim because of his soft hands and light touch, advanced footwork and an array of post moves. Zu is a strong screener and roller, enabling him to develop an excellent two-man connection with Clippers star James Harden.
Defensively, Zubac is among the best rim protectors in the Association. He isn’t the fastest or most athletic shot-blocker, so it isn’t always a pretty, highlight-worthy swat. But he’s consistently altering the calculus of opponents near the basket and holds his ground against some of the league’s best big men. His ability to anchor the Clippers’ rugged defensive unit makes him invaluable, especially for a team that’s embraced limiting scoring as its identity.