The Brooklyn Nets have been recognizing the value of Nic Claxton by giving him increased playing time, particularly in the absence of key players like Day’Ron Sharpe, Ben Simmons, and Dorian Finney-Smith.
Claxton has taken on additional responsibilities, averaging 34.4 minutes per game in the last 12 games, compared to his earlier season average of 27.5 minutes.
During this stretch, he has excelled, averaging 14 points on 65 percent shooting and 11.7 rebounds. Despite the return of Ben Simmons, Claxton remains unfazed, embracing his role and contributing effectively to the team.
“It’s been a challenge, but it’s been a good challenge to have,” Claxton said after practice Friday. “It’s why you put in all the work in the offseason, to be able to trust your body to play however many minutes that I need to play. I’m looking forward to also getting guys back in the near future and it will also be good to have Ben back, too.
“You want to play minutes. I’m not complaining. I remember when I wasn’t even in the rotation. So, now that I’m being asked to play a few more minutes than normal, like I said, that’s why you put the work in the offseason.”
Nets’ Nic Claxton embracing ‘challenge’ of increased workload https://t.co/wHP3bdEaDW pic.twitter.com/UdVzDVsfYL
— New York Post (@nypost) February 3, 2024
