Just a few years ago, Nic Claxton was a hot name on the trade market when discussing centers. A productive play finisher and a tenacious rim protector. Fans who supported squads with frontcourt needs loved photoshopping him into jerseys anytime rumors came around.
In 2026, Claxton does not carry that type of excitement around him anymore. To some capacity, that much is fair. The Brooklyn Nets center is no longer the guy averaging 12.6 points per game on 70.5 percent shooting from the field while blocking 2.5 shots a night on the other end.
Claxton is also earning much more money now than he was in 2022-23 when those averages belonged to him. The Nets paid up with a four-year, $97 million deal for his services. Brooklyn did add a wrinkle to that contract which suddenly makes him much more attractive as a trade target for a team like the Los Angeles Lakers.
The value of Claxton's deal is descending. The Nets frontcourt man was earning around $27.6 million in the first year of his contract. That number will shrink to around $23.3 million in 2026-27, and $21.1 million in 2027-28. Depending on how much Brooklyn wants in a trade return, this one could be worth a call for Rob Pelinka.
Nic Claxton still possess several key qualities the Lakers should want in a center
Pelinka has worked on trades with the Nets in the past. That should be promising for future negotiations as the Lakers general manager enjoys dealing with similar partners.
Claxton's appeal for Los Angeles should be obvious for several reasons.
Firstly, it is quite easy to envision him going up for lobs and being on the receiving end of Luka Doncic's playmaking in the pick and roll. That part of the equation can immediately be chalked up as a win.
Secondly, Claxton's averages have come down in the blocks per game category but it should still be easy to envision him as a capable rim defender for the Lakers. At the very least, there would be no doubt about him being an upgrade in that category over Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes.
Thirdly, Claxton is also fairly mobile for a big man. That should make it easy for JJ Redick to continue running a defense that may call for the 27-year-old to be dragged out on the perimeter when the time comes.
If the Nets are willing to part with their seven-year veteran at a reasonable price, the Lakers should be more than willing buyers. Claxton may not have the attention on the trade market he once did, but he still remains a viable option in 2026 for teams who need frontcourt help.
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