Clippers Welcome Back Zubac, Secure Victory Over Pacers

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Clippers extended a warm welcome to former center Ivica Zubac Thursday night, while simultaneously dispatching his new team, the Indiana Pacers, 133-116. The game marked the first meeting between the two sides since the February 5th trade that sent Zubac to Indiana in exchange for Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, and two first-round draft picks.

The evening was largely centered around Zubac’s return to the Intuit Dome. The Pacers center was honored with a video tribute during the first timeout, a gesture that visibly moved both him and Clippers fans. Prior to the game, Zubac’s locker stall was decorated with balloons and photos commemorating his eight seasons with the franchise. While he did not play in the contest, Zubac participated in warm-ups to a standing ovation from the crowd.

“It was great,” Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue said. “When you have to trade a player, it’s the worst time of the season because you’re losing someone you care about. He was here for eight years, he was the longest-tenured player on the roster. It was tough when he left, but I’m glad the fans were able to show him how much they appreciated him, because he deserves it.”

On the court, the Clippers demonstrated their strength, taking control of the game early and maintaining a comfortable lead throughout. Kawhi Leonard led all scorers with 29 points, while Bennedict Mathurin, facing his former teammates for the first time, contributed 23 points. Mathurin’s performance was particularly impactful during a dominant 14-0 run in the first quarter that effectively established the Clippers’ advantage.

Mathurin Shines Against Former Team

Former Pacers coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged Mathurin’s scoring prowess, stating, “He’s an NBA scorer, how many times do I have to say it? He was born with 20 points, and that’s a compliment. It speaks to how easily he scores. They have another scorer in Kawhi Leonard. It’s a great duo for them.”

Isaiah Jackson, who arrived in Los Angeles alongside Mathurin in the Zubac trade, also made a significant contribution. Having seen limited playing time since joining the Clippers, Jackson was thrust into a more prominent role Thursday night after Yanic Konan-Niederhauser suffered a foot injury in the second quarter. In 18 minutes of action, Jackson finished with 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

“I’ll take his activity on defense, he finishes with three blocks,” Lue commented. “He’s good in the small spaces. He’s still got to function on the systems to produce sure he’s executing, but he never shortchanges his effort. He’s going to be good for us.”

The trade that brought Zubac to Indiana was intended to address a need for a starting center following the departure of Myles Turner earlier in the season. The Pacers, currently holding a 13-38 record, are hoping Zubac’s presence will provide stability and a veteran presence as they rebuild. Zubac, who will turn 29 next month, is under contract through the 2027-28 season and is expected to form a strong pick-and-roll partnership with Tyrese Haliburton upon his return from an Achilles injury.

The Clippers, meanwhile, acquired valuable assets in the trade, including Mathurin and two first-round draft picks – a 2026 pick protected from picks 1-4 and 10-30, and an unprotected 2029 first-rounder. The 2026 pick will convert to an unprotected first in 2031 if it doesn’t convey this year. The team is banking on Mathurin’s scoring ability and the future draft capital to bolster their roster and contend for a championship.

The Clippers’ victory over the Pacers underscored their current standing as a formidable force in the Western Conference. With Leonard and Mathurin leading the charge, and Jackson providing valuable depth, the team appears well-positioned for a strong finish to the regular season and a deep playoff run. The Pacers, while facing challenges this season, are hoping Zubac’s arrival will lay the foundation for future success.

The Clippers will next face the Phoenix Suns on March 8th at the Footprint Center. The Pacers will return home to host the Orlando Magic on March 7th at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.