Every NBA team would like their full roster available on any night. Contending teams want their key players. Rebuilding teams want their young guys on the floor – and their veterans to teach them. Yet, injuries occur frequently.
The Los Angeles Lakers know this all too well. Anthony Davis is one of the best two-way big men in the NBA – when he’s healthy. Unfortunately, that’s too rare of an occurrence. Davis is regularly hurt, and the Lakers tend to struggle when he isn’t available.
On the other hand, there can be a slight silver lining in an injury. A team can learn something about themselves. For example, look at the Brooklyn Nets.
They’ve been having success with Nicolas Claxton on the shelf. Running Dorian Finney-Smith as a small ball five has helped them maximize Ben Simmons as a point guard.
Could they send Claxton to the Lakers?
NBA Trade Proposal: Los Angeles Lakers Land Brooklyn Nets’ Nic Claxton
Brooklyn Nets receive: F Rui Hachimura, G/F Cam Reddish, G/F Max Christie, 2029 First-Round Pick (LAL)
Los Angeles Lakers receive: C Nic Claxton, F Royce O’Neale
That said, players like Davis are often criticized for their frequent injuries. That isn’t fair. Davis doesn’t want to be injured. He’d suit up more regularly if his body allowed him to
With that in mind, we should stop blaming players for being hurt. On the other hand, we should give players a lot of credit for being able to stay healthy.
Durability is among the most important traits that a player can have. Look at LeBron James. He’s had an incredibly long NBA career, and throughout it, he’s rarely been the victim of injuries.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nic Claxton, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
That’s part of how James became the all-time NBA leader in regular season points. James is one of the best players of all time, and his durability has helped him earn that distinction. With that said, it looks like he needs some help in 2023-24.
Does this deal provide him with enough help?
Why The Los Angeles Lakers Do The Deal
Claxton’s ability to offset Davis’ absence is one of the benefits the Lakers would enjoy here. Yet, it can’t be the only one. The Lakers can’t trade for a Davis replacement. They need players who would also compliment him when he’s able to get on the floor.
We think Claxton qualifies. He’s one of the most versatile defensive big men in the NBA. Claxton’s ability to guard across positions is practically unmatched.
Meanwhile, the Lakers have had success with dual big models. The Lakers would look similar to how they looked when they won the 2019-20 NBA title, only Claxton is a massive upgrade over either JaVale McGee or Dwight Howard.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nic Claxton, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
Don’t sell the addition of Royce O’Neale short, either. He’s a sturdy 3-and-D wing who offers some solid secondary playmaking. This deal would make the Lakers a much better team.
What does it do for the Nets?
Why The Brooklyn Nets Do The Deal
Claxtons’ recent injury has complicated a lot of matters for the Nets. They’ve looked good without him. Meanwhile, Claxton is due for a contract extension next summer. Should the Nets give it to him if they seem to thrive in his absence?
Perhaps that’s an overreaction. On the other hand, it’s always felt like Simmons would be maximized alongside a stretch big man. Claxton and Simmons may not be a good fit, and the Nets would certainly get more value for Claxton given Simmons’ large contract.
So, we’ve got them flipping Claxton. Adding Hachimura is interesting, but above all else, the Nets are interested in an unprotected first.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Nic Claxton, Brooklyn Nets, Los Angeles Lakers Updates
This team already has an impressive collection of draft capital, and this pick would be especially valuable. After all, James may be durable, but he’s going to have to retire before 2029 – isn’t he?
