It is has not been easy to watch Nic Claxton play ... Who was this gangly, dyed-hair 20-year-old grabbing offensive rebounds and imprisoning CJ McCollum on switches? Claxton’s postgame interview ...

and if Claxton isn't making a consistent impact with his rim protection, he's tough to roster in some season-long fantasy formats.

Entering this season, Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez went out of his way to prop up Nic Claxton as a future Defensive Player of the Year candidate. The homegrown center may still win the award ...

While Clint Capela has been a solid presence for the Hawks, his age (30) and contract situation make him a less appealing long-term option ... starting lineup. Nic Claxton fills that need ...

When that happens, Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton will be among the top names ... after what the team hopes will be the inking of a long-term extension for Doncic.