The X-Factor for the Pacers in 2026

News ArticlePublishedJul 31, 2026 at 10:29 AM EDTThe Indiana Pacers barely got a glimpse of what Ivica Zubac could bring last season.After making a February trade with the Clippers to add the veteran center, Indiana had to watch him go down after just five games because of a rib fracture. It was a frustrating ending, especially for a team that believed Zubac could fill an important role.Now, he gets another chance, as the x-factor this season.Indiana has plenty of players who can create offense and push the pace, but every contender eventually runs into the same problem: what happens when the game slows down?...That's where Zubac can help. The 7-foot center gives the Pacers a physical presence they haven't always had. He can battle for rebounds, finish around the basket and give the team a