The NBA trade deadline is less than a month away, and teams are preparing to finalize their rosters before the second half of the season begins. Among the clubs reportedly open to exploring trade options are the Los Angeles Clippers
Before their recent success, the Clippers reportedly made their big man, Ivica Zubac, available on the trade market. This led to a plethora of teams expressing interest in acquiring the big man. An NBA insider revealed the Clippers’ asking price if they were to trade Zubac.
Clippers’ Asking Price for Ivica Zubac Revealed
The Clippers were off to a poor start to their season. In their first 27 games, Los Angeles recorded a 6-21 mark, indicating that changes needed to be made to the roster. This led to players such as Ivica Zubac being placed on the trade market.
According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, the Clippers were seeking two first-round picks in exchange for their center earlier this season, a slight indication that the Clippers’ front office may have been preparing for a rebuilding phase.
When Zubac was available, the Clippers managed to spark the interest of teams like the Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics, Cotto said.
However, after winning seven of their last eight games, it seems that trade talks involving the Clippers have died down a bit.
“Predominantly, teams heavily called while the Clippers were in the midst of a 6-21 start to the season. However, amid winning seven of their last eight games, the noise around the Clippers selling off players has lessened for now,” Scotto said.
Los Angeles has until Feb. 5 to determine whether it wishes to make adjustments to the roster.
Despite being involved in trade speculation, Zubac does not appear to have been affected by his status with the team. Based on his recent performances, the Clippers have many reasons to retain him.
Zubac is currently averaging 15.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. That production is roughly in line with his performance last season, when he averaged 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game. It is also worth noting that last season marked his career best in averages.
For now, it appears the Clippers are connected to trade discussions involving other players, such as with the Atlanta Hawks, in hopes of acquiring star point guard Trae Young. John Collins and Bogdan Bogdanovic are two players who could be included in a deal for Young if the Hawks and Clippers reach an agreement.