Nic Claxton has finally arrived at the Advocate Center, giving Chicago Bulls fans their first glimpse of the team's new starting center in franchise gear. The long-awaited welcome came Thursday afternoon, well over a month after the three-team trade involving the Brooklyn Nets and Minnesota Timberwolves was first reported. The Bulls were initially unable to discuss the transaction until the free agency moratorium period ended on July 6, but even then the three sides took their time making it official. It wasn't until July 10 that the Bulls finally announced the deal.

In a recent interview during an NBA Summer League broadcast, general manager Marc Eversley briefly discussed Claxton, noting the hope is for the veteran to "shore up" the Bulls' defense around a young core. The trade, which also brought in Norman Powell and Caleb Wilson, has largely flown under the radar due to the timing of the move and other offseason activity. But Claxton's arrival serves as a reminder of how big a role he is expected to play this upcoming season.

On August 6, the Bulls posted a video on social media showing Claxton entering the facilities. "First day at the facilities. It feels like the first day of school. It's been good, good vibes. I'm excited to get to know everybody and get things rolling," Claxton said in the post. The newcomer was also seen leaving the Advocate Center alongside Matas Buzelis. Both Buzelis and Wilson have been spending plenty of time in the gym and out in the city together this summer.

The Nic Claxton trade has not come without criticism. The 6-foot-11 big man has failed to look like the same elite rim protector he was early in his career over the last few seasons. His breakout season came in 2022-23, when he blocked 2.5 shots per game and was among the NBA's most efficient finishers. But injuries have taken a toll, and some observers worry that Claxton has lost a step as a springy, switchable defender. His impact on the glass has also diminished. While he still manages a pair of offensive boards per game, his defensive rebounding has fallen off. Not known for being the most physically imposing center, his lack of strength has become a bigger problem, especially with diminished vertical pop.

Yet a change of scenery could do Claxton good. He was stuck in a rough situation in Brooklyn, where the team spent the past two years outright tanking. While the Bulls may not be destined for much better results in the win-loss column, there is seemingly a clearer sense of direction. The Bulls also gave up nothing of real value to acquire Claxton. The Nets were looking to move off him to add Julius Randle, and Chicago offered a helping hand. The Bulls simply absorbed the remaining two years of Claxton's contract into their cap space. For a franchise that has lacked true rim protection for years, it felt like a decent gamble.

Could the Bulls have used that cap space in a different way that might help the team more down the road? It's an argument that can be made. But the Bulls clearly believe Claxton can help them start this new era the way they want. Now it's up to him to prove them right.