Nikola Jokic discussed the evolution of Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac ahead of their upcoming playoff series. Jokic acknowledged Zubac's development since their previous matchups.
The Denver Nuggets star specifically pointed to Zubac's expanded offensive capabilities. He noted Zubac has added dimensions to his game.
"He was kind of one-dimensional before," Jokic said. "But now he can post up, he can pass it from the pocket. He is really evolving his game.”
This season, Zubac posted career bests in scoring and rebounding. He averaged 16.8 points and 12.6 rebounds per game. He also led the NBA in total rebounds.
Zubac serves as an anchor for the Los Angeles Clippers defense, which finished third in the league in defensive efficiency. He ranked eighth in defensive field goal percentage allowed at the rim.
Clippers coach Tyronn Lue expressed confidence in Ivica Zubac when matched against the Denver Nuggets center, though he noted the difficulty of the task. Lue emphasized the need to keep Zubac on the floor and out of foul trouble.
Denver interim coach David Adelman also commented on Zubac's progress over his career, referencing his time with the Lakers and subsequent growth with the Clippers. Adelman stated Zubac now utilizes multiple parts of his skillset.
The centers from Croatia and Serbia are set to face off directly in the first round of the playoffs. The performance of both big men could significantly impact the series result.
Nikola Jokic on Ivica Zubac noted that his consistency comes from his work ethic, a trait he believes Zubac also possesses.
"He's a really good defender," Nikola Jokic added. "He's a big body who can block all the shots. He's always there being physical."
