The Los Angeles Clippers have secured Ivica Zubac with a three-year, $58 million extension, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski. This is the maximum extension Zubac was eligible for, ensuring he will earn $70 million over the next four years. He will make $11.7 million for this season before the extension kicks in for the 2025-26 season.
Here’s a look at the annual figures for the contract, as detailed by ESPN’s Bobby Marks:
– 2025/26: $18.1 million
– 2026/27: $19.5 million
– 2027/28: $21.0 million
Zubac is considered a valuable addition at this rate, providing significant contributions to the Clippers through strong rim protection and effective post play. Although the Clippers made some solid offseason acquisitions with Derrick Jones Jr., Kris Dunn, and Nicolas Batum, the departure of Paul George has been a major story of the summer.
The Clippers recently extended Kawhi Leonard for three years at $152 million and gave James Harden $70 million over two years. It seems puzzling that they let George go without compensation, especially considering their trade of three first-round picks for Harden.
The team may struggle to be a serious contender without George, particularly given Leonard’s ongoing health issues. Nevertheless, Zubac’s presence, along with Leonard and Harden, should keep the Clippers competitive in the Western Conference if they stay healthy.
Overall, the extension for Zubac is a favorable arrangement for both him and the Clippers.
