Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton has remained a potential trade chip prior to the Feb. 5 deadline, but his on-court improvements might show that he's worth keeping around, especially considering the leaps he's taken as a play-maker.

During the Nets' eventual 106-102 defeat against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night, Claxton's quick decision-making as a passer out of the short roll led to an 8-assist night to pair with his eight points, five rebounds and two blocks. 

If the athletic 26-year-old big man can continue to hone in on his distributing ability, he'll surely become a reliable member of the competitive team, whether it be in Brooklyn or elsewhere after Feb. 5 comes and goes.

Claxton is averaging a career-best 4.0 assists, showing head coach Jordi Fernandez that he's more willing to dish the ball and get his teammates involved than ever.