“Could Ivica Zubac’s Unlikely Rise Transform Him into an NBA Award Contender?”

As the NBA season unfolds, fans worldwide are buzzing with anticipation—who will rise to the occasion and make their mark in what’s shaping up to be a spectacular playoff run? Among the sea of talent, one name is making waves and turning heads: Ivica Zubac. That’s right—the skilled big man from the Los Angeles Clippers might just be the secret weapon the team didn’t know they had, delivering performances that have left critics and analysts alike reconsidering their expectations. With some suggesting he’s in the running for the coveted Most Improved Player award, it’s hard not to wonder—could this be the season Zubac truly breaks out into the limelight? His evolution from solid contributor to a star player is no small feat, and as the Clippers gear up for their playoff push, one can’t help but ponder: what’s next for the man who’s been a defensive juggernaut and a formidable presence in the paint? Buckle up, because this journey is just getting started…

The Los Angeles Clippers have done better than some people expected this season, and that’s partly due to Ivica Zubac, the talented big man who has been consistent since the very start of the year.

He has done so well, in fact, that Sam Vecenie believes he deserves to be considered for Most Improved Player of the Year.

“Honestly, I might be team Zubac for most improved player this year. Has taken such a massive leap. Not just a Harden creation as a big. Massive defender, maybe the best rebounder in the league, efficient inside and has that fun little hook shot. Just an awesome player now,” Vecenie wrote on X.

Honestly, I might be team Zubac for most improved player this year. Has taken such a massive leap. Not just a Harden creation as a big. Massive defender, maybe the best rebounder in the league, efficient inside and has that fun little hook shot. Just an awesome player now.

— Sam Vecenie (@Sam_Vecenie) April 12, 2025

Last season, Zubac posted 11.7 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, and this year that total has reached 16.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists.

There were a lot of worries about the Clippers when this season kicked off.

People weren’t sure how well James Harden would do, they were concerned with Kawhi Leonard’s health, and they also didn’t think the team had enough depth.

Zubac has been a blessing for the Clippers, playing wonderfully in the paint and providing some great defense again and again.

Averaging a double-double isn’t easy, and Zubac has clearly hit his stride.

Competition for Most Improved Player is tough this year, with stars like Cade Cunningham and Austin Reaves being considered for the prize.

Zubac might not win it, but his impact has been noted, and Clippers fans are eternally grateful for him.

The Clippers are looking to now make a splash in the playoffs, and Zubac will be a huge part of their plans.

He’s had a great regular season, so what will his postseason game look like?

The post Analyst Makes A Case For Ivica Zubac For 1 Notable NBA Award appeared first on The Cold Wire.