NBA Star Makes Admission After Being In Lakers-Clippers Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Jun 4, 2025 7:50 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers' decision to trade Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in February left a significant void in their frontcourt. Without a dominant presence in the paint, the Lakers adopted a center-less, perimeter-focused strategy. This approach, however, proved detrimental in the postseason, as first-round opponents, the Minnesota Timberwolves, exploited their lack of interior defense and rebounding.

In response, the Lakers are actively seeking to improve their roster with a reliable big man to play alongside the superstar duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic. The front office is exploring various options to restore balance and physicality to the team's lineup, aiming to recapture the dominance that characterized their previous championship runs.

Perhaps most frustrating for Lakers fans amid the team's center search, is that former LA big man Ivica Zubac has emerged into a legitimate star just miles up the road in Inglewood.

Zubac recently shared insights into his early NBA experiences in a conversation with Brandon "Scoop B" Robinson. The Croatian center recounted his rookie season interactions with Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, admitting he still uses those early-career lessons in his game.

"I learned a lot from him," Zubac said. "I use that hook shot every game. I work on it every day. I'm trying to perfect it and have one of the best hooks in the league."

Ivica Zubac spoke to @ScoopB about his rookie season on the Lakers and working out with @kaj33

“I learned a lot from him. I use that hook shot every game. I work on it every day. I’m trying to perfect it and have one of the best hooks in the league."https://t.co/Mc3nLsKnrh
— Lakers Daily (@LakersDailyCom) June 4, 2025

Zubac's journey with the Lakers began when he was selected 32nd overall in the 2016 NBA Draft. During his tenure, he showcased potential as a traditional center, emphasizing fundamentals and post moves. However, in February 2019, the Lakers traded him to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Mike Muscala—a move that drew criticism from fans and analysts alike.

Since joining the Clippers, Zubac has evolved into a formidable presence in the paint. In the 2024-25 season, he averaged 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, shooting an impressive 62.8% from the field and earning All-Defensive honors.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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