On a night that felt like a celebration for Ivica Zubac, the Los Angeles Clippers delivered a dominant 132-119 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Intuit Dome in front of the largest crowd this season last Tuesday night. It was a fitting performance on Zubac’s 28th birthday, as the veteran center put on a monster display, tallying 28 points and 20 rebounds in one of his most impressive outings of the season.
“Zubac is someone we can count on for a double-double every night,” Clippers interim head coach Brian Shaw said postgame press conference. Shaw is standing in for head coach Tyronn Lue wo is nursing a bad back. “He anchors us inside, and tonight, he gave us a little extra.”
While Zubac owned the paint, Kawhi Leonard took control of the scoring, finishing with 33 points to lead the Clippers. As the Cavaliers threw multiple defenders at him, Leonard showcased his signature patience and precision, picking apart Cleveland’s defense with ease.
The Cavaliers kept things competitive early, led by Donovan Mitchell’s scoring efforts. However, their reliance on Darius Garland as the primary ball-handler played into the Clippers’ game plan. Shaw noted how teams often try to wear down Garland over the course of a game, hoping fatigue will set in by the fourth quarter. The Clippers used their depth and defensive versatility to make things difficult for him and the Cleveland offense. “We’ve been focusing on film sessions and walkthroughs, and when everything is clicking, it’s a beautiful thing to see,” Shaw said.
Depth and Versatility Creating Problems for Opponents
One of the biggest advantages the Clippers have this season is their ability to mix and match lineups. The team’s depth allows them to play different styles, making them hard to scout and defend. The recent addition of Bojan Bogdanović has given them another dynamic scoring option, and his growing chemistry with Zubac has been an unexpected bonus.
Bogdanović, who was traded to the Clippers last month, has quickly formed a close bond with Zubac. Speaking after the game, the veteran forward explained how that friendship has made his transition to Los Angeles seamless.
“If you have a fun time just being here, it helps you compete better,” Bogdanović said. “If you’re happy in a place with the people around you – it’s never about location, it’s about the people. His support was tremendous to me since day one. We went to coffee on the first day I got traded and we just started building a relationship. We became friends here, so it’s pretty cool.”
Zubac echoed those sentiments, highlighting how their shared language has helped them communicate better on the floor. “I think so. Speaking the same language really helps, especially on the floor,” Zubac said. “He gives me a lot of confidence, and I try to return the favor to him and push him to be aggressive. We’ve got a little chemistry in pick-and-rolls, we’re playing off each other, reading the game. It’s really easy. Him coming here, it did something for me.”
With Bogdanović fitting in seamlessly and the Clippers’ depth continuing to shine, they’ve become one of the most unpredictable teams in the league. Opposing coaches are taking notice. “You can’t focus on just one person,” Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson said. “They have too many guys who can hurt you.”
The Atmosphere at Intuit Dome
The game also marked another electric night at the Clippers’ new home, Intuit Dome. Players and coaches alike have raved about the energy in the building and visiting teams have taken notice.
But while opponents may enjoy the experience, they’ve struggled to leave with victories. The Clippers have been nearly unbeatable at home, and with their current form, they look poised to be a serious contender in the Western Conference.
On this night, however, the focus was on Zubac, his career night, and the Clippers’ dominant performance. With Leonard playing at an elite level, their depth proving to be a major asset, and the team’s chemistry continuing to build, the Clippers are sending a message to the rest of the league that they are for real.