Has Nic Claxton’s presence helped Blake Griffin’s return to Nets’ rotation?

Maybe it was because Steve Nash didn’t have much of a choice with seven of his players in the health and safety protocols, but Blake Griffin has logged 30+ minutes in the past two games for the Brooklyn Nets. Both he and Nic Claxton have provided some valuable time together as the team’s big men.

Griffin was taken out of the rotation after he played in only nine minutes against Cleveland on Nov. 22, and he didn’t return to the court until Dec. 8. After missing 17 games with a non-COVID illness, Claxton returned to the lineup on Dec. 3.

In a 114-105 win over Philadelphia on Thursday, both Griffin and Claxton scored 17 points. Griffin added 9 rebounds and Claxton had 2. Brooklyn has had issues with its depth, especially down low, but having that duo together on the floor has proven to be a difference maker.

Griffin was one of the best performers in the playoffs last season for the Nets, and if Claxton can remain healthy, they’re capable of being the boost that Brooklyn needs in the frontcourt.

Blake Griffin and Nic Claxton coexist well for the Brooklyn Nets.

After signing with the Nets last March, Griffin primarily played center. He’s said that it doesn’t matter to him if he plays at the four or the five, but when he shares the court with Claxton, he assumes the power forward role. The two have played together in 25 games, but hopefully Nash realizes how the two complement one another.

LaMarcus Aldridge overtook Griffin’s starting spot, and deservedly so. Before both Aldridge and James Johnson entered the health and safety protocols, they were both in the starting lineup. That could change with Joe Harris coming back from his injury in the near future, along with the speculation that Kyrie Irving may be returning to Brooklyn.

Regardless of what happens, Nash should continue to have both Aldridge and Johnson on the court together when they’re back. And for the times that they’re not in the game, Griffin and Claxton should be the pair rocking down low.

Claxton’s versatility allows for him to defend at the rim, and also switch on guards along the perimeter. His strength and conditioning have been a concern, but his ability to finish down low has improved.

Griffin’s offensive woes were the reason why he was removed from the rotation, but it seems as if the time off benefitted him. He’s consistently been one of the most aggressive players on the floor, and his defense has been good. We’ve seen that he isn’t afraid to use his size and strength down low either, which is what the team needs from him on offense.

Meshing their talents together makes for a powerful combination at the four and five.

If Nash wants to maximize his rotations, Griffin and Claxton need to play alongside each other. They can continue to build their chemistry and be in prime form by the time that mid-April rolls around. Looks like the roster being decimated has actually helped the Nets find some key answers.

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