NBA Notes: Clippers, Ivica Zubac, Heat, Kasparas Jakucionis, Spurs

Clippers

Clippers center Ivica Zubac will be sidelined at least three weeks with a Grade 2 left ankle sprain, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes.

Zubac exited Saturday’s win over the Lakers early, and the timing isn’t ideal. He’s been one of the few steady forces this season, averaging 15.6 points and 11.1 rebounds after earning All-Defensive Second Team honors a year ago.

The victory snapped a five-game losing streak, but the bigger picture remains bleak. The Clippers rank near the bottom of the league on both ends of the floor and own one of the worst records in basketball.

Zubac’s absence will test their depth. Backup center Brook Lopez has struggled to find rhythm this season, though he delivered 11 points and two blocks in extended minutes Saturday. More of that will be required. Quickly.

Heat

The Heat have dropped six of their last seven games, but Friday’s loss in Boston came with at least one encouraging development.

Rookie guard Kasparas Jakucionis made his first career start and looked like he belonged. Pressed into action because of a growing injury list, the No. 20 pick finished with 17 points in nearly 36 minutes, a performance that stood out on an otherwise difficult night.

“He gives us energy, pace,” coach Erik Spoelstra said, via Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald. “He’s fearless.”

Jakucionis’ rookie season hasn’t been smooth. A sprained wrist limited him in camp, then a groin injury cost him the first seven regular-season games. Most of his work has come in the G League, where he’s quietly been productive. Friday was a reminder of why the Heat drafted him.

“You never know when the chance is coming,” Jakucionis said. “I just try to stay ready.”

Spurs

The Spurs made another two-way adjustment, signing Stanley Umude and waiving Kyle Mangas, per Tom Orsborn of the San Antonio Express-News.

Mangas never appeared in an NBA game but was productive in the G League. Umude, meanwhile, never left the organization. After being waived late in camp, he stayed with the Austin Spurs and played well enough to earn another look.

Umude averaged more than 20 points in the G League and has prior NBA experience with Milwaukee and Detroit. He’s in the final season of two-way eligibility, which adds a little urgency to this opportunity.