NBA news: LA Lakers eye Ivica Zubac Reunion with LeBron James to strengthen frontcourt for title push

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively exploring ways to bolster their frontcourt depth following their blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic.

With championship aspirations at the forefront, Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka has set his sights on a familiar face - Ivica Zubac.

Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo notes that Zubac’s potential return to the Lakers could provide the defensive stability and interior presence the team needs to make a serious championship push.

A needed boost in the paint

Since parting ways with Davis, the Lakers have faced challenges in maintaining a dominant presence in the paint.

While Jaxson Hayes has stepped up as the starting centre, the team is looking for a more experienced and reliable big man to complement Doncic and LeBron James.

Zubac, currently with the Los Angeles Clippers, has emerged as a prime target.

The 28-year-old Croatian centre, originally drafted by the Lakers in 2016, has transformed into one of the NBA’s most dependable big men.

This season, he is enjoying a career-best campaign, averaging 16.4 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while converting an impressive 62.5% of his shots from the field.

His defensive presence has been particularly noteworthy, posting a stellar 108 defensive rating per 100 possessions.

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The potential trade package

To acquire Zubac, the Lakers are reportedly willing to part ways with rookie forward Dalton Knecht, versatile defender Jarred Vanderbilt, and potential future draft picks.

While Knecht was selected 17th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft and holds promise as a scoring wing, the Lakers are prioritising immediate frontcourt reinforcement to chase their 18th championship banner.

Bringing Zubac back into the fold would not only address the Lakers’ rebounding and rim protection needs but also reunite him with James, whom he briefly played alongside during the 2018-19 season before being traded to the Clippers.

His ability to thrive in pick-and-roll scenarios under Lakers head coach JJ Redick would make him an ideal fit next to Doncic and James.

Championship Aspirations

If the Lakers successfully land the Croatian, they would significantly enhance their title hopes heading into the 2025-26 season.

With a core trio of James, Doncic, and Zubac, the team would boast a well-balanced attack featuring elite playmaking, scoring, and interior dominance.

As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Pelinka and the Lakers' front office to see whether they can pull off this pivotal move.

If Zubac returns to the purple and gold, Los Angeles could be primed for another deep playoff run in pursuit of NBA glory.

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