Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nic Claxton and why did the Bulls acquire him?
Nic Claxton is a 27-year-old center acquired from the Brooklyn Nets as part of a three-team trade also involving the Minnesota Timberwolves and Julius Randle. The Bulls took on his $23.32 million contract to help Brooklyn free up cap space. He fills Chicago's biggest roster need — a rim protector and rebounder in the middle.
What did the Bulls give up to get Nic Claxton?
The Bulls didn't give up players or picks in this deal — they used their massive cap space to absorb Claxton's contract, freeing up $23.32 million for the Brooklyn Nets. Chicago's status as having the most cap space in the NBA made them the perfect third team in the trade.
What are Nic Claxton's stats and how good is he?
Last season Claxton averaged 11.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game for Brooklyn. He has also started at least 68 games in each of the past four seasons, making his durability one of his biggest selling points for a Bulls team that has battled injury issues in recent years.
What is Bryson Graham's SLAP philosophy for rebuilding the Bulls?
Bryson Graham has stated he wants SLAP players — Big, Long Athletes who Play Physical. Nic Claxton fits that description perfectly and is considered the first step in remaking the Bulls' identity around that style of play.
Who are the Bulls expected to draft with the 4th overall pick after the Claxton trade?
The Bulls are almost guaranteed to select forward Caleb Wilson with the 4th overall pick, which would beef up their frontcourt alongside Matas Buzelis. From there, Chicago is expected to target a quality guard to round out the backcourt as well.
Erik Lambert
I’m a football writer with more than 15 years covering the Chicago Bears. I hold a master’s degree in the Teaching of Writing from Columbia College Chicago, and my work on Sports Mockery has earned more than twenty million views. I focus on providing analysis, context, and reporting on Bears strategy, roster decisions, and team developments, and I’ve shared insight on 670 The Score, ESPN 1000, and football podcasts in the U.S. and Europe.
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