Lakers Remain Favorites to Acquire Brooklyn Nets Center Nicolas Claxton
The Los Angeles Lakers continue to be linked as the top suitors for Brooklyn Nets center Nicolas Claxton ahead of this summer’s free agency.
As free agency approaches, the split between Claxton and the Nets appears imminent. Despite signing a four-year extension last summer, the athletic big man has been a key target for the Lakers, who are looking to add a rim-running center to strengthen their roster for next season.
Claxton just completed his fourth season as a starter, averaging 10.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Known for his elite shot-blocking ability, he registered 1.4 blocks this past season, a slight dip from the 2.1 blocks per game he averaged in the previous two years.
Since the Nets’ offseason began, Claxton has been prominently featured in trade rumors, with the Lakers repeatedly mentioned as potential buyers. NBA analysts have supported the idea of a Claxton-to-L.A. move this summer.
The Lakers are targeting an athletic rim-running big man.
After the voided trade for Mark Williams, two names to keep a close eye on this summer are Nic Claxton and Daniel Gafford.
Brooklyn has been open to moving Claxton, while Gafford is seeking an extension with a pay raise. pic.twitter.com/LluUGYrrPI
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) May 31, 2025
Forbes NBA writer Evan Sidery posted on X (formerly Twitter) about the Lakers’ pursuit of a rim-running big man: “The Lakers are targeting an athletic center. After the voided Mark Williams trade, keep an eye on Nic Claxton and Daniel Gafford this summer. Brooklyn has shown interest in moving Claxton.”
With Luka Dončić emerging as the centerpiece of the Lakers’ future, the focus is on adding a versatile big man to complement his playmaking and scoring abilities.
NBA writer Matt Moore also weighed in on the Claxton rumors, saying, “Multiple Lakers outlets have reported on potential trades involving Claxton, and it’s no coincidence. He’s an athletic, veteran big who can run the floor and switch on defense, a perfect fit next to Luka. The Nets and Lakers have traded before, and Claxton is likely ready to join a contender.”
Claxton is set to earn $26 million next season, which is considered affordable compared to other big men the Lakers are targeting. It looks like a move from Brooklyn is imminent, with a possible new chapter on the West Coast ahead for the talented center.
Leave a Reply