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The decimated and desperate Nets expect Nic Claxton back Saturday, hoping he can return to the court and return to form.

And that’s the rub with Claxton. The Nets are always hoping with him — and never in a state of knowing. Hoping he can get healthy or hoping he can stay healthy. Hoping he can someday fulfill the vast potential he so tantalizingly flashes.

“Hopeful that he can play on this trip,” Nets head coach Steve Nash said. “Hopefully he can come back and not miss too much of his rhythm, timing and impact.”