Kofi Inkoom
The Toronto Raptors might make a big move in free agency by targeting Nic Claxton, a standout center available in the market and according to oddsmakers, Bovada, the Raptors are the third favorites to land Nic.
The team has faced challenges in the frontcourt, with the Jakob Poeltl trade not aging well and recent losses of promising young big men like Christian Koloko(illness) and Jontay Porter(betting scandal).
While Kelly Olynyk brings veteran leadership, the Raptors are seeking a young, long-term option for the backup center role. Masai Ujiri, the team’s president, spoke about the importance of finding a suitable young backup big.
Although the upcoming draft offers intriguing prospects like Donovan Clingan and Zach Edey, the Raptors may explore free agency for a more dependable center. Claxton has been linked to the Raptors before, with reports indicating their interest in acquiring him in previous seasons.
With Claxton now a free agent, Toronto has the opportunity to pursue him, especially since oddsmakers consider them among the top three teams to land him. However, Claxton’s style may not perfectly align with Poeltl’s, as his lack of shooting ability could limit their simultaneous use on the court.
Nevertheless, Claxton brings defensive prowess, ranking ninth in Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2022-23 and averaging 2.3 blocks per game over the past two seasons. While his recent performance may have dipped, Toronto could capitalize on a potential buy-low opportunity if the Brooklyn Nets hesitate to retain him.
Claxton’s anticipated contract of around $20 million next season may require Toronto to part ways with players like Gary Trent Jr. and Bruce Brown to create the necessary cap space.
Despite the financial implications, given the Raptors’ need for a young big man and their previous interest in Claxton, it wouldn’t be surprising to see them pursue him in the upcoming offseason.