​New York, New York — December 18: Nic Claxton, wearing number 33 for the Brooklyn Nets, is shown in action against the Miami Heat at Barclays Center in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Heat won the game 106-95. Note to user: By downloading or using this photograph, the user agrees to the Getty Images License Agreement terms and conditions. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
The Chicago Bulls enhanced their frontcourt by acquiring Nic Claxton from the Brooklyn Nets as part of a multi-team trade. After verbally agreeing to move Claxton from Brooklyn, the Bulls finalized the deal on Friday, July 10, and publicly welcomed him to the organization with a post on X just hours before the Bulls’ first NBA Summer League game. The Nets later posted a farewell message to Claxton on social media, thanking him for his contributions to Brooklyn’s team and community.
The trade evolved into a four-team arrangement involving the Nets, the Charlotte Hornets, and the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Hornets received substantial draft compensation along with Naz Reid, Mo Gueye (from Chicago), and the draft rights to Matteo Spagnolo. In return, the Timberwolves acquired the star guard LaMelo Ball, Josh Green, and the pick that became Isaiah Evans. Brooklyn received Julius Randle and the pick that became Joshua Jefferson. The Bulls kept Claxton as the recipient of the move.
Nic Claxton, the 27-year-old center, began his NBA career after playing at Georgia in 2019. He entered the league as a late first-round pick, selected 31st overall. The Nets chose Claxton and kept him in their plans for several seasons. Since his debut in 2019, Claxton has appeared in 380 games, starting 297 of them. Over his career, he has delivered consistent production, though precise statistics beyond early career notes are not provided here. Claxton’s presence on the floor has been a notable factor for Brooklyn, contributing as a physical inside presence and a defensive presence in frontcourt rotations.