Brooklyn Nets forward Nic Claxton is turning heads this season. His leadership is palpable and translates into leading his squad in fantasy points while being fun to watch with his smooth moves. Claxton is averaging 31.6 minutes a night. He’s increasing his offensive output and serving as a major cog in the team’s playmaking overall. He averages 3.4 assists per game, highlighting his key playmaking role in the Nets’ offense. His often underappreciated contributions are helping him steer the team back into success.
Claxton’s development as a player is on full display, particularly when looking at his rookie campaign. Last year, he averaged 2.2 APG, which was a career high at least until this season. In those final two games, he demonstrated impressive vision and playmaking ability with 12 total assists. This performance is indicative of a big step forward in his all-around game. Indeed, the limited scoring alternatives on the roster has inflated the assists totals. Whether as a screener, roller, or passer, Claxton is making plays as he ever has.
A Shift in Offensive Strategy
This season, Claxton has exhibited a much more decisive offensive mindset that has created more scoring opportunities both for himself and his teammates. He’s taking more 3-pointers and getting to the foul line at a historic rate. Despite his scoring prowess, he has only reached 20 points in two games thus far, raising questions about his potential to consistently average 16 points per game. Claxton has been making a real impact with the way he’s been sucking up rebounds, averaging 8 a game. Notably, his blocking statistics have taken a bit of a downturn.
Claxton’s change in role on the court shouldn’t be underestimated. It highlights the fact that he’s always had the ability to be a more impactful offensive player. His increased decisiveness and aggressiveness should continue to amp up as the season progresses. If this growth continues, it would make him an integral piece for the Nets moving forward. His current performance positions him as a safer bet for consistent fantasy points compared to some of his teammates and other players across the league.
Fantasy League Implications
As Claxton makes a name for himself, fantasy league managers are hustling to stay ahead of the ball. Currently available in 32% of ESPN standard leagues, he represents a valuable pickup for those seeking reliable contributions in their lineups. For this season, his play indicates the sky is the limit for Claxton to make a serious run at his career-best. Fantasy fans should start viewing him as one of the better values out there to help beef up their lineups.
With his consistent scoring and playmaking abilities, Claxton is establishing himself as an essential player for the Nets and a potential fantasy star. It’s his increased minutes and enhanced offensive role that really bring his game to life. We’re excited to see what he can accomplish as the season progresses!
Looking Ahead
The sky is the limit for Nic Claxton as he keeps expanding his bag of tricks. Questions remain about whether he can sustain his current averages of 16 PPG, 8 RPG, and better than 3 APG throughout the season. His resolve and rapidly developing skill set should have fans believing he’ll work hard to rise to these tests and more.
Claxton’s ability to adapt and improve has already made a significant impact on the Nets’ performance and their standings in the league. If he continues to play at this level, he’ll become a mainstay on the roster. On top of that, he could help increase his value to fantasy basketball leagues far and wide.
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