2019 NBA Mock Draft 2.0: The post Combine edition, OKC Thunder still focused on shooting
By Rylan Stiles
Georgia. Nicolas Claxton. 29. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. C. 29. player
Nicolas Claxton is a Spurs pick if I have ever seen one. The big man from the University of Georgia does everything right when it comes to the fundamentals of basketball. The Spurs, or any team, would have to be pretty patient with Claxton as I am not confident he is ready for big time NBA minutes in year one, but the promise is there.
Claxton can defend every position on the floor, in a league that is driven on looking for mismatches and switching, that is a tremendous asset to have when entering the league.
For the Bulldogs the 20 year old turned in 13 points and 8 rebounds per game a season ago, with over two blocks a game and slightly over one steal per game.
For a big man, Claxton is a solid playmaker and could be able to run some offense in the high post making any lineup with him in it versatile on both ends. Claxton is an above average passer and a very good ball handler given the nature of his position.
Not only can he defend the perimeter if need be, but Claxton is a very good rim protector.
With his overall qualities and potential Nicolas Claxton could be a very solid NBA player. And given the Spurs culture and system, he simply makes a lot of sense in this organization.