Ivica Zubac poised for increased scoring vs. short-handed Jazz

Clippers center Ivica Zubac is expected to boost his scoring against a potentially short-handed Utah Jazz frontcourt, with Jusuf Nurkic (doubtful) and Lauri Markkanen (questionable) battling illness. Despite averaging 12.5 points in January, Zubac previously scored 19 points against the Jazz in October. He's a strong rebounder, averaging 3.6 offensive boards and 4.2 second-chance points (3rd in NBA), which will be crucial against Utah's weak interior defense and low rebound rate. Projections anticipate him exceeding 14.5 points.