The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly linked with Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton to strengthen their frontcourt and complement Luka Doncic.
The Los Angeles Lakers are looking to strengthen their depth at the center position this summer, and their approach must complement Luka Doncic, who is now the team's primary playmaker.
According to Hardwood Paroxysm, one name linked to the LA Lakers is Nic Claxton, who fits well alongside Luka.
"Multiple Lakers outlets have reported on 'theoretical' trades involving Nets center Nic Claxton, and that's not a coincidence," the report said. "Claxton provides an athletic veteran floor runner who can switch to put next to Luka.
"The Nets and Lakers have done deals before, multiple times, and Claxton is likely ready to be on a contending team."
Claxton is a versatile defensive big man who can switch onto multiple positions. On offense, he's a strong lob threat and a reliable finisher around the rim.
At 26, Claxton has established himself as one of the league's best defensive bigs with a "Swiss army knife" skill set on that end of the floor.
Credit Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Drafted 31st overall in 2019, Nicolas Claxton has spent his entire career with the Brooklyn Nets.
This past season, he averaged 10.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.4 blocks over 70 games. He has appeared in 311 regular-season games and 20 playoff contests in his six-year career.
Claxton's contract features a declining salary structure, paying him less each season, with three years remaining.
To acquire Claxton, the Lakers might offer a trade package that includes rookie Dalton Knecht, rotation players like Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber, and draft picks to match salaries.
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