With the NBA All-Star break officially in the rearview, the Brooklyn Nets will now set their sights on trying to come across a substantial amount of success during their final 28 games of action.
While not technically the case from a sheer mathematic standpoint, the time following the league's illustrious weekend is often considered to be the unofficial second half of the season and, for this Nets team, there appears to be quite a lot at stake both from an overall team and individualistic standpoint.
Brooklyn Nets who need monster second halves to save their jobs
When taking into account the trajectory this club currently finds itself on what with their lowly 21-33 record and placement on the outside looking in on a Play-In Tournament berth, should they continue on with their lackluster way of play it's safe to assume the front office will opt to make some major changes to the team's makeup this summer, thus resulting in the removal of certain individuals from their respective jobs.
When looking at this Nets squad as currently constructed, there are several names, in particular, that could wind up being sent outbound come year's end should they not put forth noteworthy second-half pushes.
3. Nic Claxton
Heading into this year's deadline, rumblings started to surface suggesting that Nic Claxton "could be more available" in trade talks than many had previously thought, thus making some believe the Nets may not be sold on his ability to serve as the club's primary pivot for the long term as he plays out the final year under contract.
Of course, in the end, the February 8 cutoff came and went and Clax still finds himself in tow, suggesting Brooklyn has had a change of heart or they tried and failed to make a move happen.
Either way, considering the big man has publicly stated he wishes to re-up with the franchise this offseason, in order to better his odds of getting what he wants finishing out the remainder of the year on a strong note will likely be a must.
With this block, @_claxton33 has moved into 10th place in Nets NBA history in blocked shots (387) 🔒 pic.twitter.com/hbIc77AxD8
— Brooklyn Nets (@BrooklynNets) February 14, 2024
Through 44 games played, Claxton finds himself posting averages of 12.2 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 2.3 blocks while shooting 62.5 percent from the floor which, while undoubtedly solid, are clear regressions in a multitude of areas compared to his tremendous showing from just a season ago.
Putting on a monstrous second-half showing would not only strengthen his chances of getting the bag this summer but also make the Nets feel more comfortable shelling out a lucrative offer in his direction.