Inside The Nets

Nic Claxton is Developing a Consistent Jump Shot

Clax wants to diversify his offensive arsenal.

Peter Sunjic

© Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
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Nic Claxton has been with the Brooklyn Nets for five years now, but his role on offense has largely stayed the same. Most people reckognize him as the lob threat or the player who thrives on put-back opportunities.

Lately, Clax has been unveiling an expanded offensive skill set, demonstrating aggression in shielding the ball with his body and confidently taking shots.

That is a good sign for his personal growth because the Nets’ offense will have more dimensions in head coach Jacque Vaughn's system.

“I got a three-ball coming too. Of course, I wanna find my spots whether it’s the mid-range or a three-pointer,” Claxton said in a practice session presser.

How a Nic Claxton jump shot can help the team

While Claxton is often utilized as the roll man in pick-and-roll plays, opponents can develop defensive strategies against this predictable pattern. 

Yet, if the young center incorporates a reliable, and consistent jump shot into his arsenal, it creates additional space for the team to execute plays more dynamically.

Additionally, the University of Georgia product has shown a willingness to take the shot as long as it’s in the flow of the offense. 

This enhances the potential for extended court time with both Claxton and Ben Simmons (when he gets healthy). Concerns about their floor partnership affecting spacing may be alleviated if Claxton increases his shooting frequency, forcing the defense to respect their pick-and-pop dynamics.

Getting Clax involved is a good long-term plan

With Claxton getting more touches, he will be inclined to stay with the Nets for the foreseeable future. 

Keep in mind that he is in the last year of his contract in the 2023/24 season, and entrusting him with such responsibilities could positively influence the terms of his future contract with the franchise.

He and Cameron Thomas are the two younger players who will work out as the building blocks for the team. Clax is more of the defensive star while Cam is the explosive scorer. 

Developing their skills on the defensive end, they are poised to become perennial All-Stars. With Nic at the helm as the starting center, the Nets are in a strong position, particularly as he continues to enhance his offensive game.

Why the Brooklyn Nets Can't Afford to Let Nic Claxton Walk

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Peter Sunjic
PETER SUNJIC

Peter's journey with basketball commenced in the first grade, and it has since evolved into an integral part of his life. Standing on the brink of a potential professional playing career, Peter ultimately chose to pursue a degree in Political Science and Journalism in Zagreb, Croatia. Despite this academic pursuit, his deep-rooted love for the game of basketball endured, undiminished. Now, as a writer and editor, Peter finds an avenue to channel his unwavering passion for basketball-related news and analysis. Whether it's deciphering the latest happenings or delving into the lore of old-school basketball, he covers every corner of the NBA world.

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