Pacers GM Chad Buchanan Explains Ivica Zubac’s Role in Indiana

At the February 2026 NBA trade deadline, the Indiana Pacers acquired veteran center Ivica Zubac from the Los Angeles Clippers. The move was presented as a shift from the team’s previous starting center, Myles Turner, to a player with a different skill set. Buchanan noted that Zubac’s transition has been positive and that teammates quickly bonded with him, citing his “easygoing, personable” nature and extensive league relationships — a point he made on March 12, 2026.

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Buchanan repeatedly emphasized that Zubac aligns with the Pacers’ organizational values. He acknowledged that Zubac’s strengths differ from Turner’s, highlighting Zubac’s rebounding, paint protection, screening and passing, while noting his limited three-point shooting. Buchanan also stressed the need for Zubac to adapt to Indiana’s style, describing the adjustment period as manageable because of the center’s “intelligence… off the charts” — a comment made on March 17, 2026.

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According to Buchanan, the Pacers’ “fast” identity refers to rapid decision-making rather than sheer speed. He explained that Zubac’s “screening, physicality, and decision-making” complement a system built on ball movement and quick reads. While not a traditional “gazelle” on the floor, Zubac’s elite basketball IQ and willingness to make quick reads are expected to enhance the team’s interior presence and versatility, especially in protecting the rim and punishing smaller defenders.

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• “I think the perception is that we play fast, [but that actually means] we make quick decisions.” — Chad Buchanan, pacers general manager

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