"It's just what I do" - Nic Claxton on his Ability to Block Shots
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After another strong performance for the Brooklyn Nets against the Toronto Raptors, Nic Claxton drew plaudits for his rim protection.
In the first eight games of the 2023/24 season, Clax has maintained an impressive average of 2.9 blocks per game, showcasing exceptional defensive prowess that consistently provides reliable paint coverage for his teammates and contributes to the Nets' success.
CLA❌ doin' it all pic.twitter.com/Cve5f3L7Lt
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) November 29, 2023
“It’s just what I do, if it’s one through five if we’re in drop, I just find a way to protect the rim. That’s something I’ve had a knack for since I’ve been playing basketball,” Claxton said in his post-game presser. “Honestly, it’s just a little bit easier with me being close to the rim a lot more than the drop. That’s my job and that’s something I’ll continue to do well.”
The Nets are much better with Nic on the team
Whenever Nic is playing with the Nets, you can tell that the players feel much safer. He is the rim protector that the team relies on to cover up their defensive issues.
Perimeter players strategically guide their assignments toward the paint, where Nic excels in securing the airspace and blocking shots.
Clax attack to start us off pic.twitter.com/orJq9toiz3
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) November 29, 2023
Defense is not the only department where Nic can make an impact because he is also improving his contributions on offense. He continuously refines his skills, incorporating hook shots, executing dribble hand-offs, and showcasing proficiency in jump shots.
This evolution the Nets are seeing with Nic is a welcome sight as he continues to be the long-term option at center.
Nic Claxton fake handoffs pic.twitter.com/oCfPrwAY2A
— Brett Usher (@UsherNBA) September 9, 2023
Nic needs to stay healthy
In the early stages of the 2023/24 season, Nic has grappled with ankle injuries. His status was uncertain even before the Raptors game, as he re-aggravated an injury that sidelined him for a significant portion of the season's outset.
When he is healthy, the Nets are much better on both ends because they are defending and rebounding well. They want to play with pace and Nic ending the opponents’ possessions creates opportunities to play in transition.
Coach Jacque Vaughn wants to continue playing that way and the University of Georgia product will always be receptive to him being the premier defender on the team.