Lakers: Building the ideal 10-man rotation for the 2018 season

8 – Ivica Zubac (C)

With Brook Lopez, Julius Randle and sometimes Thomas Bryant getting looks at center, Ivica Zubac has become an afterthought for the Los Angeles Lakers. The 2016 second round pick did pretty decent in his rookie year for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, in 2017-2018, Zubac has hardly been used and seems to be completely forgotten.

Zubac has played in just 16 games this season, even spending time in the NBA G-League (alongside Josh Hart). Overall, Zubac is averaging just 4.2 minutes per game, 1.2 points and 0.9 rebounds. Obviously, that is not the most impressive stat line. However, in his rookie campaign, Zubac averaged 7.5 points and 4.2 rebounds in 16 minutes per game.

Zubac’s limited time on the court is hurting his case to be a backup center in the league; he has only played in 54 NBA games in two years, after all. However, his size (seven-foot-one) would be much-needed in a smaller bench as this. Although Julius Randle may be the first option to come in at center, Zubac is the perfect third option if the Lakers need a big lineup.

Plus, without Zubac, it is hard to use Randle’s full range of versatility. DeMarcus Cousins cannot be out on the court all the time; if Randle is playing the four someone is going to need to step in at center.

Zubac should be that guy. He may not have the most staggering numbers or be the most impressive to watch. However, he has the skills and most importantly the size.