Los Angeles Lakers: Predicting starting lineup and rotation

No. 13: Ivica Zubac

Ivica Zubac showed flashes in his rookie season two years ago, but seemed to take a step back last year. He went from playing 16 minutes and averaging 7.5 points and 4.2 rebounds per game in 2016-17, to averaging 3.7 points and 2.9 rebounds in 9.5 minutes per game in 2017-18.

With the Lakers lacking size on the roster, Zubac might get more playing time than he warrants at the moment. There’s a good chance Wagner will get the first crack at being the primary backup center, but Zubac could surpass him if he plays well enough.

Barring any injuries, the more likely outcome is Zubac will play spot minutes at center and play more in blowout victories.

The 21-year-old still has time to develop and could carve out a future role as a rotational player if refines his game.