Ben Simmons, Nic Claxton and the big bets the Nets are making

NEW YORK — As the NBA season kicks off, the Brooklyn Nets are looking to surprise their opponents in unconventional ways. Head coach Jacque Vaughn is focused on utilizing the unique strengths of his players, even if it means pairing non-shooters like Ben Simmons and Nic Claxton together.

In a preseason game against the Miami Heat, Simmons passed the ball behind him to Claxton, who made a quick spin move and scored a layup. Vaughn loves plays like this that catch opponents off guard because they are not typically defended against.

While Simmons and Claxton may not be known for their shooting prowess, they bring other skills to the table. Claxton is a threat near the rim, with the ability to attack defenders off the dribble and finish with strength. Simmons, despite his lack of shooting, is a versatile player who can drive to the rim and create scoring opportunities for his teammates.

The Nets believe that this odd pairing can work because of their defensive abilities as well. By focusing on defense and getting stops, the team can rely on their transition game and minimize spacing issues. If Simmons returns to his All-Defense form and Claxton continues to excel defensively, the Nets have a strong defensive lineup.

In the halfcourt, the Nets understand the importance of movement and ball rotation. They cannot rely on isolation plays and need to generate flow and tempo. While they may not have the shooting arsenal of the Golden State Warriors, they can still learn from their ability to create misdirection and open up scoring opportunities for their shooters.

Overall, the Nets are taking a series of bets on their players’ unique strengths and abilities. By embracing creativity, unpredictability, and defensive prowess, they hope to exceed expectations and surprise the league.

Source: ESPN

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Emily Turner

Emily Turner is your source for everything NBA. As a dedicated basketball enthusiast, she offers insights into NBA games, player highlights, trade rumors, and the league’s evolving dynamics. Emily’s love for the sport shines through in her comprehensive NBA coverage.