Ivica Zubac’s exit from the Los Angeles Lakers still lingers in the minds of many fans and analysts. With a decade gone by since he was picked 32nd overall in the 2016 NBA Draft, his journey with the franchise unveils both promise and frustration.
Initially, Zubac showcased potential that hinted at a bright future. However, after three seasons and a couple of G-League stints, a trade to the Los Angeles Clippers marked a significant transition in his career.
Recently, during an appearance on the Xs & Os Chat podcast, Zubac shed light on his mixed experiences while part of the Lakers organization, particularly during the tumultuous rebuilding phase spearheaded by Magic Johnson.“Magic never called from his own number,” he shared. “Nobody had his phone number. It was always a hidden number… At the exit meeting after the season, they told me they were definitely picking it up. A week before the date of that option, they called my agent and said, ‘We’re not going to take him.’”
Ivica Zubac reveals Magic Johnson stopped Kareem Abdul-Jabbar from joining the Lakers staff and mentoring him
“He told me he wanted to mentor me and work for the Lakers. He had a meeting with Magic… but he never got a job.”
(Via @XOsChat, h/t @TheNBABase) pic.twitter.com/AxkejI3GtP
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Zubac elaborated on the inconsistency in expectations from the front office. As a developing young player, the abrupt end to his time with the Lakers left him questioning the direction of his career.
Interestingly, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar had expressed a desire to assume a mentorship role, eager to guide Zubac on his techniques and refine his skills, particularly the legendary skyhook. Despite the initial excitement, this mentorship never materialized. Efforts to integrate Abdul-Jabbar’s teachings into Zubac’s game fell flat.
Ivica Zubac’s Time at the Los Angeles Lakers Stirred “What Ifs”
Zubac emphasized that the trade itself didn’t weigh on him as heavily as the communication surrounding it. Reflecting on the 2017 Summer League, he mentioned feeling immense pressure from the organization to secure an MVP award. This was amidst talented teammates like Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, and Alex Caruso, making it a daunting expectation.
Despite a successful Summer League and a championship title, Zubac often felt overshadowed as the roster depth limited his role. With the arrival of more experienced players, his minutes dwindled, leaving him at a crossroads in his career.
The narrative of Ivica Zubac at the Lakers serves as a potent reminder of how the design of an athlete’s developmental journey can be shaped by communication, expectations, and opportunities. As he forges ahead with the Indiana Pacers, the lessons and experiences from his past may well define his future as he continues to evolve within the game.
