Ivica Zubac, season over for the Indiana Pacers big man
The season of Ivica Zubac is over. A rib fracture will sideline the Croatian center for the remainder of the year. The injury occurred during Wednesday’s game, when he left the court after taking a hit from Donovan Clingan of the Portland Trail Blazers. Traded from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Indiana Pacers at the deadline, Zubac logged just 48 minutes in an Indiana jersey due to multiple injuries. In five games, he averaged 11.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists in 23.6 minutes per game. Despite the setback, he is expected to play a key role for the franchise next season, especially once star guard Tyrese Haliburton returns to full health. The Pacers are also set to benefit from a high pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, as they currently hold the worst record in the Eastern Conference at 15–55 — the worst record in the entire NBA.