Ivica Zubac Embraces Fresh Start with Pacers, Praises Haliburton’s Playmaking Prowess
After spending the entirety of his NBA career under the bright lights of Los Angeles, Ivica Zubac is heading into uncharted territory - both geographically and professionally. The veteran center, who began his career with the Lakers before becoming a fixture with the Clippers, is now donning a new jersey in Indiana. And while the move marks a significant shift, Zubac is already looking forward to the possibilities, especially the opportunity to share the floor with All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton.
In a recent video message, Zubac didn’t hold back his admiration for Haliburton, calling him one of the league’s premier playmakers. “I’m very excited that I’m on a team with a point guard like him,” Zubac said.
“Obviously I’ve played with some great point guards, and he’s going to be another name on that list. He’s probably one of the best in the league.
The way he moves the ball, involves his teammates, leads the guys on the court - it’s special.”
Zubac also reflected on what it was like to face Haliburton in the past, noting just how difficult it was to defend him in pick-and-roll situations. “That was probably my toughest pick-and-roll coverage last year,” Zubac admitted.
“It’s the combination of his shooting, his speed, his ability to go downhill - and he makes the right play every single time. That’s something that really excites me.”
Zubac’s arrival in Indiana didn’t come without a cost. The Pacers had to part ways with Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and three draft picks to secure the 7-footer. According to reports, the Clippers initially turned down a similar offer that included a first-round pick and a pick swap, but eventually agreed to the deal that brought in a haul of young talent and future assets.
While the Pacers are understandably thrilled to add a seasoned big man to their rotation - especially one who brings size, rebounding, and rim protection - the emotional toll of the trade was felt deeply on the other side of the transaction. Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue spoke candidly during a press conference, revealing just how much Zubac meant to the organization.
“Super tough,” Lue said. “I saw Zu grow from day one.
A lot of people in the organization yesterday were crying. It was a tough day for us.
Emotional day.”
That sentiment speaks volumes about Zubac’s presence in the locker room and the relationships he built over eight seasons in L.A. He wasn’t just a contributor on the court - he was a respected voice and a steadying presence within the franchise.
And for Zubac, the move wasn’t easy either. Leaving a city and team where he spent the bulk of his professional life is no small thing.
But now, the focus shifts to what’s next. Zubac joins a Pacers squad that’s building momentum, led by Haliburton and newly acquired forward Pascal Siakam. It’s a team with playoff aspirations and a roster that’s starting to take shape around a dynamic core.
That said, fans in Indiana may have to wait a little longer to see Zubac in action. He’s currently nursing an ankle issue that’s expected to delay his debut. Still, once he’s healthy, the fit alongside Haliburton - a pass-first guard with elite vision - has the potential to unlock a new level in Zubac’s game.
For now, the Pacers have added a battle-tested veteran who knows how to anchor a defense and finish around the rim. And for Zubac, this is a chance to write the next chapter of his NBA story - one that begins not under the Hollywood lights, but in the heart of the Midwest, with a team hungry to make some noise.