Nets' Nic Claxton Sidelined After Spraining Ankle During Practice

Brooklyn will be without its starting center for Thursday's matchup with the Cavaliers.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton suffered a right ankle sprain during practice on Wednesday and has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Claxton has been having a strong season, averaging 12.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.3 blocks per game. With the Nets battling for draft position, they are expected to take a cautious approach with Claxton's recovery.

Why it matters

Claxton's injury is a significant blow for the Nets, who are in the midst of a tight race at the bottom of the standings as they aim to improve their draft position. His absence will test the team's depth at center, with Day'Ron Sharpe and others expected to see increased playing time.

The details

Claxton suffered the ankle sprain during Wednesday's practice session. The Nets did not provide a specific grade for the injury, but they have ruled him out for Thursday's game against the Cavaliers. Sharpe, the team's backup center, is expected to step into the starting role in Claxton's absence. Danny Wolf and Noah Clowney could also see more minutes at the center position.

  • Claxton suffered the ankle sprain during practice on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.
  • Claxton has been ruled out for the Nets' game against the Cavaliers on Thursday, February 20, 2026.

The players

Nic Claxton

The Nets' starting center, who is having one of the best statistical seasons of his career, averaging 12.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.3 blocks per game.

Day'Ron Sharpe

The Nets' backup center, who is expected to step into the starting role with Claxton sidelined. Sharpe is averaging 8.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.1 steals per game this season.

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What’s next

The Nets will monitor Claxton's recovery and provide updates on his status for future games. The team faces a difficult upcoming schedule, with 12 of their next 17 games against teams with winning records.

The takeaway

Claxton's injury is a significant setback for the Nets as they battle for draft position in the NBA's tank race. The team will need to rely on its depth at center, with Sharpe and others expected to step up in Claxton's absence, as they navigate a challenging upcoming schedule.