The Los Angeles Clippers are in a fascinating spot right now-part contender, part question mark-and the trade chatter swirling around them reflects just how many directions this team could go. One name drawing the most attention? Ivica Zubac.
According to league sources, no one on the Clippers' roster is generating more interest from opposing teams than Zubac. And it’s not hard to see why.
He’s a throwback big with modern utility-strong in the paint, solid on the boards, and a dependable anchor in the middle. If the Clippers decide to put him on the market, the asking price won’t come cheap.
The word is they’d want at least two first-round picks in return, which speaks volumes about how they value his role and production.
There’s been some buzz about potential suitors, and while nothing appears imminent, teams like the Celtics-who could use a true center-are naturally part of the conversation. There’s even been talk of a possible framework involving Anfernee Simons’ expiring contract. The Clippers reportedly had interest in Simons before he was moved from Portland to Boston, but at this stage, that’s more of a theoretical fit than a concrete plan.
While Zubac remains a hot commodity, another name to watch is John Collins. The Clippers acquired him in a multi-team deal over the summer, hoping he’d rediscover the form that once made him a rising star in Atlanta.
So far, that bounce-back hasn’t materialized. Collins is averaging just 11.9 points per game-his lowest mark since his rookie year-and his shooting numbers have taken a dip, especially from beyond the arc where he’s hitting just 31.6%.
Add in a career-low 4.9 rebounds per game, and it’s clear he hasn’t quite clicked in L.A.’s system. With his $26.6 million contract set to expire, the Clippers are reportedly open to moving him before the deadline.
Then there’s the Chris Paul situation, which has taken a sharp turn in recent weeks. After a short and turbulent stint with the team, the Clippers are now weighing whether to waive the veteran guard.
If they do, it could open the door for Kobe Sanders to be promoted from his two-way deal to a full roster spot. Due to hard cap restrictions, L.A. doesn’t currently have the flexibility to sign a free agent to even a minimum deal.
Promoting Sanders, who could be signed to a rookie minimum contract that skirts luxury tax complications, would be the most viable path forward if Paul is released.
Paul’s exit, if it happens, wouldn’t come without drama. According to a league source, the veteran guard reportedly “called out” teammates, coaches, and even president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank during his brief time with the team.
He later apologized, but by then, the damage may have been done. The source added that “everyone was fed up.”
Given Paul’s age, declining production, and strong personality, there’s no guarantee another team will be eager to bring him in if he hits the open market.
Meanwhile, there have been rumors of tension between Paul and head coach Tyronn Lue, with some suggesting the two hadn’t been on speaking terms in recent weeks. But Lawrence Frank made it clear where he stands on Lue, telling reporters that the coach is “a hell of a coach” and will be in his role “for a long time.” That vote of confidence suggests the Clippers see Lue as a steady hand amid the current turbulence.
Injury-wise, the Clippers are still without veteran guard Bogdan Bogdanovic, who’s dealing with a left hip contusion. Though initially listed as day-to-day, he’s now set to miss his seventh straight game. His last appearance came back on November 20, and the team will certainly be hoping he can return soon to bolster the rotation.
So where does all this leave the Clippers? They’re a team with championship aspirations, but also one with real decisions to make.
Zubac’s value is high, Collins could be on the move, and the Paul saga might be nearing its end. With the trade deadline creeping closer, don’t be surprised if L.A. makes some noise-whether it’s a blockbuster move or a strategic shuffle to tighten the rotation.
Either way, the Clippers are a team to watch.