Inside The Nets

"It's just what I do" - Nic Claxton on his Ability to Block Shots

Blocking and altering shots is Nic's job, and he will continue to do that at the highest levels.

Peter Sunjic

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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.

“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.

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 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.

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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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