Although Brooklyn fans adore Nets star Nic Claxton, he does not receive the recognition he merits from the rest of the NBA. Fortunately, Clax’s opponents in the NBA acknowledge his abilities, particularly when it comes to defense.
Superstar Luka Doncic of the Mavericks, a front-runner for MVP, is one of those players. Nic just received his well-earned roses from the Slovenian playmaker, who praised his defensive efforts in particular.
On the podcast Old Man and the Three with JJ Redick, Luka stated:
“You have some great, great defensive players, you know, like yesterday (against Brooklyn), I have to give credit to Claxton,” “He’s a 5, and he was picking me up full court, he was really guarding me good.”
Luka Doncic on Nicolas Claxton’s defense:
“You have some really great, great defensive players, you know, like yesterday(vs Nets), I really have to give credit to Claxton. Hes a 5, and he was picking me up full court, he was really guarding me good.” pic.twitter.com/Cjm9JQpu90
— 🧑🏾🍳 (@BoredroomDJ) February 9, 2024
Nic Claxton is a superb defender
A good shot-blocker, Nic Claxton is well-known across the league. He gets his best results when he attacks the weak side and blocks layups, floaters, and even dunk attempts. With his skill set, he can defend the rim since he can impede shots with his long limbs and commanding presence.
With his rim protection, the former Georgia Bulldog averaged 2.3 blocks per game and several changed shots. But Claxton deserves credit for his all-around defensive performance. Because of his deft footwork and quick reflexes, Nic is one of the league’s top big men for switch defense. He can also hold his own against smaller guards and wings on the perimeter.
Look up in the sky, it's a bird, it's a plane. Nope, it's Nic Claxton pic.twitter.com/zAjiyTpewI
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) February 11, 2024
Luka mentioned Nic Claxton as the Nets center was having trouble scoring. Nic deserves to be ranked among the top defenders in the league, as evidenced by Doncic’s statement that he is among the best offensive players in the game.
