Clippers players Montrezl Harrell, Lou Williams, Patrick Beverley and Landry Shamet all have availability issues.
But at least Ivica Zubac played for L.A. in its final scrimmage before seeding games.
The reason for his delay in joining the team at at Disney World? Coronavirus.
Andrew Greif of the Los Angeles Times:Zubac said he tested positive in late June and didn’t show symptoms but felt tired.
“Other than that I was good,” he said on a videoconference after the scrimmage. “I was getting tested daily, and I was waiting to clear all the protocols to join the team in Orlando, but it was tough because I didn’t have any — I couldn’t get in a gym. I couldn’t stay in shape. I mean, I did some stuff, but it’s hard to replace the practices and these games. I did as much as I could, but I wish I was with the team from the start.”
Zubac felt “a little winded” against the Kings but believed he would feel ready for the higher-intensity seeding games “in a few days.”
Fatigue is a symptom – a significant one for an NBA player. Zubac’s conditioning is important.
He’s the Clippers’ starting center and top traditionally sized center. Harrell also plays the position well, but he’s smaller. Zubac is a solid, skilled interior option.
The Clippers are positioned for a deep playoff run. So, that gives Zubac time to get back into shape.
But the catch-22: The Clippers will extend their season only if enough players are healthy and available.
Zubac is at least now on the court. He needs more of his teammates to join him.