Ivica Zubac and the Clippers' Missed Opportunity
Despite a slow start this season, the LA Clippers are regretting a decision involving Ivica Zubac that could have significantly changed their current position.
Reasons for Hesitation
The Clippers were reluctant to include Zubac, a young and talented Croatian center, in a major offseason trade aimed at acquiring Kevin Durant. Concerns about Zubac's age and the remaining prime years of his career influenced this hesitation.
Current Performance and Impact
Although a slight performance dip was anticipated, it was expected that Zubac would recover. However, his recent decline is evident; he is posting up less, grabbing fewer rebounds, and not leveraging his height as effectively.
Kevin Durant’s Success
Meanwhile, Durant is excelling with the Houston Rockets. Despite being 37, his move from the Phoenix Suns to Houston has seen no drop in his production.
“There was never a doubt that his production would change going from the Phoenix Suns to his desired destination.”
Regret over Missed Trade
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.
“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.”
Summary
The Clippers' refusal to trade Ivica Zubac for Kevin Durant is now seen as a costly mistake amid Zubac's decline and Durant's ongoing success.
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