
Lakers center Ivica Zubac will miss the rest of the 2016-17 season after suffering a high ankle sprain. Photo by Steve McCrank, Daily News/SCNG
After an MRI confirmed a high ankle sprain in his right ankle, Lakers center Ivica Zubac will miss the remainder of the 2016-17 season.
The Lakers are exercising caution for obvious reasons. After selecting him with the 32nd pick of the 2016 NBA draft, the Lakers view Zubac as a worthy long-term investment. But the news marks a missed opportunity in which the Lakers and Zubac could continue his steady growth with their seven remaining regular-season games.
Zubac gave the Lakers plenty of optimism with his long-term trajectory with his post presence, hook shot, mid-range jumper and defense. While averaging 7.5 points on 52.9 percent shooting and 4.2 rebounds, Zubac also impressed the Lakers with his steady growth, work habits, improving his conditioning and losing weight.
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