The Los Angeles Clippers have been among the busiest teams at this year’s February trade deadline. After dealing James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the franchise followed up with another major move by trading their longtime center Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers.
However, the decision left several of Zubac’s teammates disappointed, including veteran forward Nicolas Batum. In a recent interview, Batum admitted that of all the trades he has witnessed throughout his lengthy NBA career, this one struck him the hardest.
“I told my wife last night — I’ve been in this league 18 years,” Batum said. “I think it’s the one that hurt the most. I’ve had friends and teammates that got traded, and it sucks. But you go through it with guys. Zu — like, it’s not expected. He meant so much for the franchise. I bet it was very difficult for the front office to do it.”
Only hours before the trade was finalized, Zubac had welcomed his first child into the world. Batum said the life-changing moment made the situation even more emotional.
“I remember my son was born and I had to leave the next day to Miami for 36 hours. And it was crushing. And that was just 36 hours. I couldn’t imagine — we talked last night a little bit. Very, very difficult.”
In return for Zubac, the Clippers received Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, two first-round picks, and a second-round selection. While Indiana sacrificed significant assets, the acquisition gives the Pacers a high-level center. With Tyrese Haliburton, Andrew Nembhard, Aaron Nesmith, Pascal Siakam, and now Zubac, Indiana boasts one of the more formidable starting fives in the league.
Ivica Zubac Shares Emotional Farewell to Clippers
After the trade, Zubac took to Instagram to post a heartfelt goodbye to his former teammates, the organization, and the fanbase.
“This is one of toughest moments in my life,” he wrote. “Exactly 7 years ago this team gave me a chance and I never imagined it would work out this way. They allowed me to grow as a player and a man. Just wanna say thank you. Especially to the fans. From the moment I put on this jersey, you guys showed me love and support, on good nights and bad nights, never turned your back on me. That meant everything and it was the reason I had such pride representing this jersey.
“Made so many brothers and friends for life. Loved being part of the Clippers family. Steve and front office thank you guys for trusting me and giving me a chance, year after year. I leave with nothing but love, gratitude and respect for this organization and all you guys. From top to bottom. I’ll never forget these 7 years and love I got here. Always love LA Clippers Zu.”
Zubac has spent all 10 seasons of his NBA career in Los Angeles. After beginning with the Los Angeles Lakers, he established himself with the Clippers. Now, for the first time, the veteran center is set to continue his journey outside the city he has long called home.
