The reason why Ivica Zubac's debut with the Pacers is delayed
Coach Rick Carlisle reveals the plan he will follow with his new star center.
Indiana Pacers is in no rush with Ivica Zubac. Coach Rick Carlisle confirmed that the newly acquired center is still not ready to debut due to a combination of personal matters — the arrival of his first child — and persistent ankle discomfort that he has been dealing with for weeks in the NBA.
Carlisle explained that, after speaking with the player, the coaching staff believes that there is still enough discomfort to warrant caution.
"We're not going to rush anything. We want him to be completely well before we see him on the court," the coach said.
A significant franchise investment
Indiana acquired Zubac and Kobe Brown from the Los Angeles Clippers in a trade that included Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and several draft picks. The move reflects the Pacers' intention to find a stable solution at the center position following Myles Turner's departure in free agency.
Zubac, known for his durability throughout his career, has played in the majority of possible games in the NBA, something Carlisle particularly values, although he made it clear that playing while injured will not be an expectation within the team.
A team in reconstruction
The Pacers are going through a challenging season and currently have one of the worst records in the league. This situation enhances the value of their own draft picks, including the protected 2026 pick, which could become an important asset for the future.
The franchise is looking beyond the current season and already thinking about how Zubac will fit in when star point guard Tyrese Haliburton returns next season following his Achilles tendon injury.
What Zubac brings on the court
This season, Zubac is averaging 14.4 points and 11 rebounds, with a field goal efficiency close to 61%. Unlike Turner, he is not a center who stretches the defense with outside shooting but rather a more classical player, strong in the paint and on the pick-and-roll.
Carlisle summed up the profile change succinctly:
"They are different players, but both can be decisive. We feel fortunate to have Zubac."
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