LOS ANGELES — The Clippers will be without starting center Ivica Zubac for a minimum of three weeks after he was diagnosed with a Grade 2 sprain of his left ankle, according to NBA reporter Chris Haynes.
Zubac left Saturday’s win over the Lakers in the first half. The 7-footer is averaging 15.6 points and 11.1 rebounds after earning NBA All-Defensive Second Team honors last season. Los Angeles halted a five-game skid with the victory but remains near the bottom of the league in both offensive and defensive ratings. Backup center Brook Lopez, who has struggled to find consistency, contributed 11 points and two blocks in extended minutes Saturday and is expected to see a larger role during Zubac’s absence.
Heat
BOSTON — Despite dropping their sixth game in seven outings Friday against the Celtics, the Heat received a lift from rookie guard Kasparas Jakucionis. Pressed into the starting lineup because of multiple injuries, the No. 20 overall pick scored 17 points in nearly 36 minutes during his first NBA start.
“He gives us energy, pace. He’s fearless,” head coach Erik Spoelstra said, as quoted by the Miami Herald. Jakucionis dealt with a sprained wrist in training camp and missed the first seven regular-season contests with a groin strain, spending most of his time in the G League, where he has been productive. “You never know when the chance is coming,” the 19-year-old said. “I just try to stay ready.”
Spurs
SAN ANTONIO — The Spurs have signed wing Stanley Umude to a two-way contract and waived guard Kyle Mangas, the San Antonio Express-News reported. Mangas had not appeared in an NBA game but posted strong numbers in the G League.
Umude, released late in training camp, remained with the Austin Spurs and averaged more than 20 points per game. The 24-year-old previously logged NBA minutes with Milwaukee and Detroit and is in his final season of two-way eligibility, making this stint with San Antonio a timely opportunity.
Source: Hoops Wire
