Despite holding the league’s second-worst record, the Indiana Pacers still expect to get big man Ivica Zubac back on the floor before the end of the season.
Head coach Rick Carlisle told reporters that the veteran center, who arrived from the Clippers at the trade deadline, is progressing as he recovers from a left ankle sprain that has sidelined him since February 2.
Zubac began light practice work during the All-Star break and has been gradually increasing his activity as he works toward game readiness.
Carlisle confirmed the team still plans to play him at some point before the season concludes, but emphasized that the timeline remains uncertain.
“Yeah, he’ll play this season,” Carlisle said Wednesday during a pre-game session with the media. “I don’t know when. He’s doing better, but he’s not there yet and we’re not going to send a guy out there to play who isn’t 100 percent.”
Before acquiring Zubac, Indiana explored multiple options at center leading up to the deadline.
The team ultimately landed the experienced big man, who is expected to step into a starting role as the Pacers look to strengthen their roster heading into next season.
Zubac was named to the All-Defensive Second Team last year and had been producing solid numbers with Los Angeles prior to his injury, averaging 14.4 points, 11.0 rebounds and 2.2 assists across 43 games.
Central Notes: Zubac, Pacers, Porter, Kuzma, Pistons https://t.co/mTYqV5iF8j pic.twitter.com/MN7JynOp9R
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 5, 2026
