The Brooklyn Nets are in a tough spot right now, and it’s only going to get worse.
With virtually no control of their fate in the NBA Draft because of the James Harden trade, they won’t also be an attractive destination for free agents.
On top of that, they’re more than likely to lose one of their best players, as Nic Claxton is ready to test the free agency waters.
Money will obviously be a factor for one of the best rim protectors and interior defenders in the game.
However, a winning culture will also play a big role, as he told Michael Scotto of HoopsHype (via Billy Reinhardt).
Nic Claxton on what he’ll looking for in free agency:
“Winning. Being a playoff team and winning games.” https://t.co/SG652hJwiY
— Billy Reinhardt (@BillyReinhardt) April 13, 2024
Apparently, Claxton will favor winning and competing over anybody else as he becomes a free agent for the first time in his career.
The Nets don’t have enough talent to compete at the highest level.
Cam Thomas and Mikal Bridges are obviously very good players, but that’s not enough.
Claxton has worked his way up the ladder in the NBA, and he’s finally stayed healthy this season, so he could be in for a big payday and an expanded role somewhere else.
He’s not much of an offensive factor aside from lobs, put-backs, and the occasional pick-and-roll play, but he’s a difference-maker on the other end of the floor.
And with the dominant interior defender being a dying breed in today’s pace-and-space NBA, it shouldn’t be shocking to see multiple teams lining up to sign one of the few available in today’s market.
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