Nets' Nic Claxton Questionable for Pacers Game

Claxton's injury downgrade could lead to more tanking opportunities for Brooklyn

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton has been downgraded to questionable for Wednesday's game against the Indiana Pacers due to right hip soreness. Claxton's potential absence would be a blow to the Nets, who are already without Michael Porter Jr. and are looking to boost their odds for a top draft pick.

Why it matters

The Nets are currently in the bottom five of the NBA standings, so resting key players like Claxton could help them improve their lottery odds for the upcoming draft. This game against the Pacers has the makings of a 'tank-off' between two non-competitive teams.

The details

Claxton has missed just two games for the Nets this season, but his health is crucial for the team's chances of winning. In his last game against the Bulls, he recorded a monster 28-point, 10-rebound double-double in a 123-115 victory for Brooklyn. With Claxton potentially sidelined, the Nets will have to rely more on backup center Day'Ron Sharpe and forward Danny Wolf to fill the void at the center position.

  • Claxton was downgraded to questionable for the Pacers game on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Nic Claxton

The Brooklyn Nets' starting center who has been dealing with right hip soreness and is questionable to play against the Indiana Pacers.

Day'Ron Sharpe

The Nets' backup center who will likely see increased minutes if Claxton is unable to play.

Danny Wolf

A Nets forward who may also be asked to play center minutes if Claxton is out.

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What they’re saying

“The Nets will already be without Michael Porter Jr. for tomorrow night's contest, so this has indeed devolved into a full-blown tanking affair between Brooklyn and Indiana.”

— Erik Slater, Nets beat reporter (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

The Nets will wait to see if Claxton's hip soreness improves enough for him to play against the Pacers on Wednesday. If he is unable to go, it could open the door for more tanking opportunities for Brooklyn.

The takeaway

The Nets' decision to potentially rest Claxton highlights the team's focus on improving their draft position rather than competing for a playoff spot this season. This game against the Pacers has the makings of a 'tank-off' between two non-contending teams.