The Zach Lowe Show Trade Deadline Winners and Losers
111 snips
Feb 6, 2026 
Kirk Goldsberry, spatial NBA analyst known for mapping player impact, and Kevin Pelton, analytics evaluator famous for trade grades, break down trade-deadline fallout. They debate the Zubac move, shifting guard value, Anthony Davis’ fit in Washington, Giannis staying in Milwaukee, and who truly gained or lost at the deadline.
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Pacers' Bold Center Move
- The Pacers acquired Ivica Zubac to replace Miles Turner and position themselves as a serious Eastern contender next season.
- The Clippers got valuable protected future picks, making the deal good value despite Zubac's strong contract.
Protections Reflect Draft Tiers
- The Clippers negotiated heavy protections on the Pacers' pick, showing teams now tailor protections closely to draft evaluations.
- The 5–9 range matters greatly in this draft, so protection thresholds reflect perceived player tiers.
Why Clippers' Moves Make Sense
- The Clippers' deadline trades felt explainable by roster and cap logic, not necessarily punishment fears.
- Trading Zubac and Harden gives them assets and flexibility while preserving summer cap planning.