It was already a bit of a pipe dream, but following The Stein Line's Jake Fischer's latest report, the Indiana Pacers' chances of acquiring Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers may be drastically reduced.
"I can likewise tell you, based on conversations with numerous teams, that any hopes that the Clippers would part with Zubac or James Harden have faded significantly," Fischer wrote.
As the Pacers look to finally secure their Myles Turner replacement, there were reports that they were exploring a trade for Zubac ahead of the Feb. 5 deadline. At the time, Los Angeles ranked among the worst teams in the NBA and was looking like a massive disappointment. Because of this, there was some thought that maybe, just maybe, the team would be sellers this season and potentially move on from Zubac.
Things look completely different for the Clippers now, however. They are 8-2 in their last 10 games. And while their 17-23 record still leaves a lot to be desired, they are just 1.5 games behind the No. 9 seed Portland Trail Blazers and are seemingly climbing their way up the standings.
Zubac would have been a great addition for Indiana. He is a fantastic paint presence on both sides of the ball and has been the anchor of the Clippers' defense for multiple seasons. Additionally, he would've been a huge help to the Pacers' rebounding woes, and he would have easily been an upgrade at center for the team.
Ultimately, it now seems like Indiana will have to look elsewhere as the 28-year-old may be officially off the market this season.
What should the Pacers do at center?
Zubac wasn't the only center the Pacers were reportedly interested in, but he was the best one.
Beyond Zubac, the Pacers have been linked to players like Yves Missi, Nic Claxton, Daniel Gafford, and Walker Kessler. All these players would be good additions for one reason or another, and they should absolutely explore all their options ahead of the trade deadline. But at the same time, it might just make sense for them to stand pat this season and re-evaluate in the summer.
The Pacers have a better chance at winning the draft lottery this year than making the playoffs. But that's not necessarily a bad thing.
This year's draft is expected to be a star-studded one with players like AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer, and Caleb Wilson leading the way. If the Pacers can land any of them, that would be a big needle-mover for them.
Additionally, the future is still bright in Indiana, and getting Tyrese Haliburton back next season should help the team re-enter the title picture sooner rather than later.
Trading for a new starting center this season (especially if they're just going to be available in the offseason as well) would be risky for the Pacers as it could "ruin their tank." They should explore all their options and see what's available. But as it stands, especially if they're not going to land someone like Zubac, they may be better off just keeping the team together as is and trying again in the offseason.