The Phoenix Suns appear ready to move on from Kevin Durant this offseason, and unsurprisingly, the Los Angeles Clippers are among the teams lurking with interest. With Durant’s elite scoring and postseason pedigree, the Clippers see a potential path to forming one of the most dangerous lineups in the Western Conference. But standing in the way of a blockbuster trade may be a 7-foot, quietly dominant big man: Ivica Zubac.
According to multiple reports, including Jake Fischer of The Stein Line and Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the Clippers are highly reluctant to include Zubac in any deal, despite the Suns’ strong interest in the 28-year-old center. Over the past year, Zubac has elevated his game to career highs across the board — 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists per game — while shooting nearly 63% from the field. His durability (80 games played) and All-Defensive Team-level impact have made him a cornerstone for a roster otherwise riddled with injury questions.
Los Angeles Clippers Covet Kevin Durant, But Ivica Zubac Is A Dealbreaker
Durant, reportedly interested in joining Miami, Houston, or San Antonio, does not have a no-trade clause. And according to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Suns are making it clear to interested teams — rumored to be six to eight in total — that they will accept the best offer, not necessarily the one that aligns with Durant’s preferences.
The Clippers could craft a package including Norman Powell, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Derrick Jones Jr., two future first-round picks, and swap rights. But without Zubac, Phoenix may hesitate. That said, L.A.’s logic is clear: with Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and a healthy Zubac, they won 50 games last season despite Leonard playing just 37. If that core remains intact, adding Durant would be a luxury — not a necessity.
Zubac has quietly developed into one of the NBA’s most dependable and efficient two-way centers, and the Clippers seem intent on keeping him. Whether that choice costs them a shot at Durant remains to be seen — but for now, L.A. is betting on its foundation rather than mortgaging it.