Zubac or Bryant: Who lands the Los Angeles Lakers’ backup center spot?
Ivica Zubac
Ivica Zubac appeared in 38 games (11 starts) in his rookie season for the Lakers, averaging 7.5 points in 16.0 minutes per game. The 20-year-old from Croatia fared better in his 14 starts in the D-League, averaging nearly a double-double with 15.8 points and 9.7 rebounds a contest. He has an old school post game, which still has a role in the NBA.
More from Los Angeles Lakers
- NBA Trades: The Lakers bolster their frontcourt in this deal with the Pacers
- A surprise LeBron ranking should raise alarm bells for the Lakers
- Surprising Austin Reaves contract detail confirms Lakers got him for a steal
- Instant Grades for the Lakers’ unprecedented Anthony Davis extension
- Report: Lakers have big plans for recent top-10 pick amid roster shakeup
Coaches have started moving their defensively limited post players to bench roles and allow them to be the offensive centerpiece of the second unit. Al Jefferson and Zach Randolph come to mind as examples of this trend, with Randolph only seeing a one point dip in scoring production after the switch. Feeding Zubac in the post when the bench squad is struggling to score could be his best role.
Zubac is effective on the offensive end away from the block as well. He hits mid-range jumpers, grabs an offensive board a game and understands how to read defenses and find space for himself. Zubac has a smooth jumper that should translate to the 3-point line.
His defense is what limits his minutes. Zubac isn’t the best athlete and struggles to stay in front of anybody in the league while offering little rim protection. His 7’1” frame gives him ideal size for a rim protector, but he lacks the explosiveness needed to make a significant difference on the interior.
More seasons in an NBA weight training program should improve his athleticism. He was a fan favorite last season. Hopefully he’s on the court enough to maintain this status.