Move Mozgov to the bench, start Zubac
Is 19-year-old Ivica Zubac a starting-caliber center in the NBA? No, but neither is Timofey Mozgov when you really think about it.
Among starting centers in the NBA, Mozgov is dead last in rebounds per game (5) and has the worst box plus-minus. Four years, $64 million. Real tears.
If the Lakers can find a team to take his contract at the deadline, that would be the equivalent of winning an NBA championship. Confetti at Staples. Champagne in the locker room. Not only would that be a huge win off the court, but it would free up playing time for rookie Ivica Zubac. Over the last three games,
Not only would that be a huge win off the court, but it would free up playing time for rookie Ivica Zubac. Over the last three games, Zubac has averaged 10 points, 8 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 24.2 minutes per game. Not bad for a rook. He’s still an incredibly raw prospect, but after spending some time in the D-League
He’s still an incredibly raw prospect, but after spending some time in the D-League, Zubac looks a little more comfortable with the physicality of the NBA game. He still needs to work on boxing out and getting defensive rebounds, but if his two double-doubles in his last three games are any indication of what this kid can do, he’ll be alright.
All he needs now is an opportunity and as the season goes on I would not be surprised to see Zubac get starters minutes, and maybe even a starting spot.