Indiana Pacers center Ivica Zubac is set to miss the remainder of the season due to a fractured rib sustained in Wednesday’s clash with the Portland Trail Blazers. This unfortunate setback was confirmed by league sources and reported by Dustin Dopirak.
Zubac, who joined the Pacers from the Los Angeles Clippers in February, had only begun to find his rhythm with Indiana. In his brief stint of five games, he showcased his skills by averaging 11.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, shooting an impressive 47.2% from the field and a solid 80% from the free-throw line.
Despite holding the worst record in the Eastern Conference this season, the Pacers have their sights set on a brighter future. With All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton returning, Indiana is poised to become a championship contender next season. The anticipated "Big 3" of Haliburton, Zubac, and Pascal Siakam is expected to make waves in the 2026-27 campaign.
Reflecting on the team’s potential, Zubac previously expressed his excitement about playing alongside Siakam and Haliburton, highlighting their versatility and leadership. “Pascal can score in a bunch of different ways,” he noted.
“Tyrese is one of the best in the league at what he does. Moves the ball, involves teammates, leads on the court.
That really excites me.”
Zubac’s journey in the NBA has seen him don the jerseys of the Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers, and now the Pacers. As he looks ahead to next season, he carries career averages of 10.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game. The Pacers and their fans eagerly await his return, hoping for a promising and successful season.