It seems the Brooklyn Nets are handling a lot of distractions these days, with the new NBA season opening its curtains just a few weeks from now.

Just in case you've been living under a rock, Nets star guard Kyrie Irving continues to refuse the COVID-19 vaccine. He already missed their first home practice on Tuesday and is expected to sit out more with coach Steve Nash not willing to pick a venue outside New York.

With the way things are shaping up, it was reported by Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report that Nets general manager Sean Marks has been listening to some trade offers. While Irving has been linked to some rumors, it's up-and-coming big man Nic Claxton who's allegedly been getting the interest of opposing teams, according to Fisher (via Heavy).

“I heard Nic Claxton’s name pop up a little bit. Now people probably don’t want that out there, but it’s definitely true.”

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A lot of people are definitely high on the 22-year-old Claxton, a springy 6-foot-11 who has all the tools to be a menace on the defensive end. He was productive in limited minutes for the Nets last season, and he's earned praises from Kevin Durant and James Harden for his upside.

Claxton will play a larger role this season with the departure of DeAndre Jordan and Jeff Green. While the returning LaMarcus Aldridge is expected to start at center for the Nets, expect Claxton to get some looks too. If he doesn't get traded, that is.