The sneaky Tiago Splitter link behind Bulls-Nic Claxton trade

The Chicago Bulls’ acquisition of Nic Claxton in Monday’s three-team trade may have come with an intriguing connection to newly hired head coach Tiago Splitter.

According to K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network, Splitter previously worked closely with Claxton during their time together with the Brooklyn Nets.

Johnson shared Tuesday on X, formerly known as Twitter:

“One more note about pending Nic Claxton acquisition I forgot to connect dots on last night: Tiago Splitter, as Nets assistant, worked with Claxton his first four seasons in league.”

The connection adds another layer to Chicago’s decision to acquire Claxton as the organization begins a new era under Splitter and executive Bryson Graham.

Claxton entered the NBA as Brooklyn’s second-round pick in 2019 and developed into one of the league’s better defensive centers during his time with the franchise. Splitter served as a Nets assistant coach from 2019 through 2023, meaning he played a role in Claxton’s development during the early years of the big man’s career.

Tiago Splitter’s prior relationship with Nic Claxton adds intriguing layer to Bulls trade

The trade itself involved three teams. The Nets acquired Julius Randle and the Minnesota Timberwolves’ No. 28 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft while sending the No. 33 pick to Minnesota. Chicago agreed to send forward Mo Gueye to the Timberwolves as part of the deal.

For the Bulls, Claxton addresses a major need in the frontcourt while bringing a player familiar with Splitter’s coaching style and expectations. That prior relationship could help ease Claxton’s transition into a franchise undergoing significant change following the departures of former executive Artūras Karnišovas and former head coach Billy Donovan.

While the trade was primarily viewed through the lens of roster construction, Johnson’s observation highlights a less obvious connection. As Chicago continues reshaping its roster and culture, the existing familiarity between Splitter and Claxton could prove beneficial as the Bulls attempt to establish a new identity heading into the 2026-27 season.

The post The sneaky Tiago Splitter link behind Bulls-Nic Claxton trade appeared first on ClutchPoints.