Brook Lopez initially joined the Los Angeles Clippers as a veteran reserve behind starting center Ivica Zubac, but circumstances now point toward him holding the starting role for the remainder of the season, according to Janis Carr of The Orange County Register.
Lopez briefly stepped into the lineup earlier in the year after Zubac suffered an ankle injury in December, though he later rotated in and out of playing time while rookie Yanic Konan Niederhauser handled backup center duties.
The situation shifted significantly at the trade deadline when Zubac was sent to Indiana, leaving the Clippers to rely more heavily on Lopez as they push toward a playoff spot.
The veteran big man said his approach throughout the season has simply been to remain prepared regardless of role changes.
“It’s just been about staying ready for me,” Lopez said. “Obviously, my goal is to help my team win by whatever means possible, so on a nightly basis, whatever’s required of me, I’m going to go out there and do it.”
At 37 years old, Lopez brings extensive starting experience, having spent most of his career in that role prior to signing with Los Angeles last summer.
He demonstrated his ability to handle increased responsibility in Friday’s loss to the Lakers, recording 16 points and 10 rebounds while the offense ran more through him after Kawhi Leonard exited with left ankle stiffness and Bennedict Mathurin fouled out.
“I’m comfortable in a lot of different roles,” Lopez said. “It’s something I got to do for a good decade in my career, so I’m confident doing that. Again, whatever’s required of me.”
Clippers Notes: Lopez, Leonard, Collins, Garland https://t.co/FNjvffaWu5
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) February 22, 2026
