NEW YORK — The Brooklyn Nets have not done much winning lately as they seek to be destined for a finish outside of the play-in tournament. With that being said, one of the things that the Nets know these days is that they have a center who should be a part of their future.
“I think I’m a great big man,” Brooklyn center Nic Claxton said after Thursday’s 96-94 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Claxton had a tough task ahead of him as he went toe-to-toe with Rudy Gobert, one of the best defensive big men of this era and arguably, in NBA history. Despite the matchup, Claxton still had confidence in himself.
“Anytime I have a matchup like that, one of the quote unquote top centers in the league, I always take it personal to just go out and be the best version of myself,” Claxton said. Claxton went on to put up 16 points (8-of-10 shooting from the field), 11 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two blocks in over 38 minutes of action.
While Thursday’s loss was a repeat of a common theme that has plagued the Nets lately in close games, Brooklyn was reminded of how much of a competitor Claxton is. “I’m an extremely competitive person. And, you know, I love basketball. I love to compete. So, I bring that every single night,” Claxton explained.
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